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The UEFA Champions League is back with another season of drama, excitement, and world-class football. Following the group stage draw, six Nigerian internationals will feature for their clubs on Europe’s biggest stage, with the action kicking off on September 16.
The tournament is only in its second year under the revamped format, which puts all 36 qualified teams into one large group, with each side playing eight matches.
Defending champions Paris Saint-Germain face a tricky path, but for Nigerian fans, all eyes will be on the Super Eagles stars representing different clubs across Europe.
Victor Osimhen – Galatasaray
After a successful loan spell that saw him fire Galatasaray to the Turkish Super League title, Victor Osimhen is back in the Champions League. The forward, who previously played UCL football with Napoli and Lille, is no stranger to the big stage.
This will be his fifth campaign in the competition, and Galatasaray will rely heavily on his goals in a group that pits them against Liverpool, Atletico Madrid, and Manchester City, among others.
Ademola Lookman – Atalanta
Lookman’s future at Atalanta has been under speculation as the transfer window winds down, but for now, he remains in Bergamo.
The Europa League winners are back in the Champions League, facing a challenging fixture list that includes Chelsea, PSG, and Marseille. Whether he stays or moves, Lookman has proven himself as a forward capable of delivering on big European nights.
Victor Boniface & Nathan Tella – Bayer Leverkusen
It could have been a new adventure for Boniface at AC Milan, but a failed medical means he stays at Bayer Leverkusen, where he will continue linking up with fellow Nigerian Nathan Tella.
The German champions, now under Erik ten Hag, have been drawn against PSG, Manchester City, and Benfica, a group that promises intensity. Boniface’s eye for goal and Tella’s versatility will be key weapons for Leverkusen in their campaign.
Raphael Onyedika – Club Brugge
Onyedika has grown into an important figure at Club Brugge, and his team stormed into the Champions League group stage with a commanding playoff win over Rangers.
The Belgian side will now test themselves against European giants like Barcelona, Arsenal, and Bayern Munich. For the Nigerian midfielder, it’s another opportunity to prove himself at the highest level.
Igoh Ogbu – Slavia Praha
One of the lesser-known names in the Super Eagles setup, Igoh Ogbu is set to taste Champions League football with Slavia Praha.
The Czech club faces a daunting lineup of opponents, including Barcelona, Inter Milan, and Tottenham. Ogbu, who made his debut for Nigeria in the Unity Cup against Ghana, will be eager to seize this stage to showcase his defensive qualities.
Source: BusinessElitesAfrica | Read Full Story…
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