Naija Players Xploits Abroad

Most of Europe’s top leagues are still in hibernation and as expected, the goals have yet to start raining from a Nigerian perspective. Injured stars, Victor Anichebe and Omatsone Aluko are yet to return to competitive action while John Obi Mikel continues to enjoy the confidence of Chelsea manager, Jose Mourinho. In Portugal, Elderson Echiejile continues to prove his worth at SC Braga while John Ogu continues to remain on the sidelines at Academica. It was a relatively quiet weekend for Nigerians abroad and supersport.com now highlights the best of the action. England (Barclays English Premier League) Mikel replaced Oscar after 79 minutes in Chelsea’s 2-0 win over Hull City at the Kingston Communications Stadium. Aluko is still not back from injury and was not listed by Hull City manager, Steve Bruce for the clash against Chelsea. Peter Odemwingie made way for Cardiff City legend, Craig Bellamy at half time in the Bluebird’s 0-2 loss to West Ham United at the Cardiff City Stadium. Anichebe was not listed for West Bromwich Albion as the Baggies lost 0-1 to Southampton at St. Mary’s Stadium. Shola Ameobi was not listed for Newcastle United as the Magpies controversially lost 0-2 to Manchester City at St. James’ Park. Victor Moses was an unused substitute for Liverpool as the Reds won a rip-roaring contest 5-3 against Stoke City at the Britannia stadium. France (Ligue 1) As expected, Vincent Enyeama was back in the starting line-up for Lille in their encounter against Reims at Stade Pierre-Mauroy. Portugal Echiejile played all 90 minutes and was booked in the 52nd minute of SC Braga’s 3-0 win over Vitória Guimarães at the Estádio AXA. Ogu watched from the bench for all 90 minutes as Academica Coimbra beat Paços de Ferreira 4-2 at Estádio EFAPEL. Italy (Serie A) Joel Obi was an unused substitute for AC Parma in the club’s 3-0 win over Livorno at Stadio Armando Picchi. Ogenyi Onazi replaced Alvaro Gonzalez in stoppage time of SS Lazio’s 0-0 draw against Bologna at the Stadio Renato Dall'Ara. Spain (Primera Liga) Ramon Azeez played for all 90 minutes for Almeria as the Andalusians suffered a 6-1 beating in the hands of Athletic Bilbao at San Mamés Barria.