Chukwueze, Boniface magic, Okoye shutout set tempo for 2026/27

Nigerian football stars Samuel Chukwueze, Victor Boniface, and Maduka Okoye showcased impressive form for their respective European clubs over the weekend, signaling an encouraging start to the 2026/27 season.

Samuel Chukwueze was instrumental in AC Milan's 4-2 friendly victory over Manchester United. The Super Eagles winger scored the equalizer and provided two assists, including the setup for the winning goal. He played the full match, demonstrating his readiness after a successful loan spell at Fulham last season.

In Newcastle, Victor Boniface scored a stunning late winner for Bayer Leverkusen in their 2-1 pre-season friendly win against the English side. After Ibrahim Maza opened the scoring for Leverkusen, Boniface secured the victory in the 82nd minute. The striker is looking to regain his top form following a challenging period hampered by a knee injury.

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He knows what he has to do. I’m pushing him as well. It’s getting better. His quality is obvious.

Leverkusen head coach Carles Martinez acknowledged Boniface's progress, stating, "He knows what he has to do. I’m pushing him as well. It’s getting better. His quality is obvious." Boniface himself expressed gratitude for fan support during his recovery.

Goalkeeper Maduka Okoye recorded a clean sheet in Udinese's 1-0 Coppa Italia win against Padova. Declared fit after a shoulder injury sustained in pre-season, the 26-year-old's performance was a welcome sight. Additionally, winger Moses Usor impressed for LASK in a 4-1 Austrian Bundesliga victory, contributing an assist and a goal.

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The fans supported me in good times and bad times, and I really appreciate that. We players need their support. I’m really very happy and thank every single one of them.