Moses Simon steals spotlight from Osimhen to claim Nigeria’s Baller of the Week

In a weekend brimming with impressive performances from Nigerian stars across Europe, Moses Simon emerged as the undisputed Baller of the Week, narrowly edging out Galatasaray’s goal-scoring sensation Victor Osimhen. 

The Super Eagles winger’s scintillating display for Paris FC in Ligue 1 showed his flair, versatility, and match-winning impact, making him the standout performer among Nigeria’s footballing elite.

Moses Simon, newly settled at Ligue 1’s Paris FC, delivered a performance that lit up the French capital. In a thrilling 3-2 victory over Metz, the 29-year-old winger scored a crucial goal and provided an assist, directly contributing to his team’s hard-fought win. 

This marks back-to-back goals for Simon, who has now tallied two goals and one assist in just three matches for the newly promoted club. 

His ability to influence games both as a scorer and creator highlights his growing importance to Paris’s ambitions in the French top flight.

Simon’s performance was a blend of pace, precision, and composure. His goal showed his knack for finding space in tight situations, while his assist demonstrated his vision and unselfish play. 

For a player adapting to a new team and league, Simon’s immediate impact is nothing short of remarkable, proving he’s ready to carry Paris FC’s attacking hopes.

Victor Osimhen, the Super Eagles’ main man, was a strong contender for Baller of the Week after continuing his fine form for Galatasaray. 

The 26-year-old striker scored his second goal in three matches during a 3-1 win over Rizespor, further solidifying his status as a key figure in the Turkish Super Lig. 

Osimhen’s clinical finishing and ability to deliver in big moments make him a constant threat, and his seamless transition from Napoli to Galatasaray is a reminder to his world-class talent.

However, Moses Simon’s edge comes from his dual contribution in Paris’s victory. While Osimhen’s goal was vital, Simon’s goal and assist in a tightly contested match gave him a slight advantage in terms of overall impact. 

Additionally, Simon’s performance carried extra weight as he’s anchoring a newly promoted side, where the pressure to perform is immense, compared to Osimhen’s role in an established, title-chasing Galatasaray squad. 

Simon’s ability to single-handedly turn the tide for Paris in a five-goal thriller tips the scales in his favour.

The weekend was packed with notable performances from Nigerian players abroad. Frank Onyeka, dubbed “The Tank,” provided an assist for Brentford in the Premier League, though his efforts were overshadowed by a late Sunderland winner. 

Nathan Tella also impressed, setting up the opener in Bayer Leverkusen’s 3-3 draw with Werder Bremen in the Bundesliga. 

Meanwhile, Super Falcons’ Esther Okoronkwo contributed an assist in AFC Toronto’s 2-1 win over Calgary Wild FC, and Chidozie Awaziem secured a clean sheet for Nantes in Ligue 1.

Despite these strong showings, none matched Simon’s direct influence on the scoreline. His ability to both score and create in a high-stakes match for a team fighting to establish itself in Ligue 1 sets him apart.