Baller of the Week: Ademola Lookman DETHRONED by heroic Super Eagles teammate

From Victor Osimhen’s lethal finishing to Ifeoma Onumonu’s flair in France, the Naija Stars Abroad left no doubt about their talent.

Nigerian football fans were treated to a dazzling weekend of performances across Europe, as Super Eagles and Falcons stars lit up their leagues with goals, assists, and unforgettable moments.

PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latest Soccer News in Nigeria from Pulse Sports

But one man stood tallest, Fulham’s Calvin Bassey - snatching the Baller of the Week crown from Ademola Lookman, who was silenced last weekend.

In a pulsating FA Cup clash, Bassey delivered a defining moment, scoring his first goal in the competition to help Fulham stun Manchester United.

The Cottagers held their nerve in a penalty shootout, knocking out the Red Devils in a seismic upset. Bassey’s strike and steely resolve earned him top billing, dethroning Lookman with a performance that echoed far beyond Old Trafford.

To be fair, Osimhen wasn’t far behind after bagging a brilliant brace for Galatasaray in a wild 6-goal draw against Kasimpasa.

The Super Eagles striker’s clinical edge keeps the Lions in the Turkish title hunt, though they were made to rue the dropped points by rivals Fenerbahce.

Meanwhile, Umar Sadiq matched Osimhen’s feat, netting twice for Valencia in a 3-3 La Liga thriller, perfect timing with World Cup qualifiers looming.

The Super Falcons shone too, with Ifeoma Onumonu stealing the show in France. Her goal and assist powered Montpellier to victory, underlining her growing stature.

Elsewhere, Rinsola Babajide’s eighth league goal for Tenerife, Nathan Tella’s strike for Leverkusen, and Tolu Arokodare’s 16th of the season for Genk kept the Naija flag flying high.

Based on impact, context, and individual brilliance, here is the standout Nigerian trio from a good week for Naija Stars.

• Calvin Bassey (Fulham)

Why: Scoring in an FA Cup upset against Manchester United. His goal and defensive solidity against a top club edge him ahead of others.

Highlight: First FA Cup goal + eliminating Man United = massive statement.

• Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray)

Why: A brace in a high-scoring game underlines his elite finishing ability. Even though Galatasaray didn’t win, his contribution to their title push keeps him among the top performers.

Highlight: Clinical double in a 6-goal thriller.

• Ifeoma Onumonu (Montpellier)

Why: A goal and an assist in a victory showcase her dual threat. Her all-around impact for Montpellier in the French league earns her a spot over other goal-scorers like Sadiq due to the win factor.

Highlight: Direct involvement in two goals for a winning side.

But it’s Bassey who takes the plaudits. His FA Cup heroics outshone Osimhen and Sadiq's double and Onumonu’s magic, proving that sometimes, it’s the moment, not just the stats, that defines a star. Nigerian football is buzzing, and Bassey’s the name on everyone’s lips this week!

Lookman’s cage is officially unlocked—Bassey takes the crown with a performance Nigerian fans will savour for weeks. Osimhen and Onumonu round out an exceptional showing for Naija Stars Abroad!