Iwobi, Eze Earn Team of the Week Honours After Standout Displays

Alex Iwobi and Eberechi Eze have both been named in the Premier League Team of the Week for Matchday 31, following their influential performances for Fulham and Crystal Palace respectively. The selection, released by football statistics platform WhoScored, highlights both midfielders’ impressive contributions over the weekend.

Iwobi starred for Fulham in their comeback win against Liverpool, scoring a deflected strike in the 32nd minute and later providing a crucial assist. His efforts earned him a rating of 8.17, with the Nigerian international also making several defensive contributions as Fulham held off a late surge from the Reds.

Meanwhile, Eze, who trained with the Super Eagles back in 2017 but remains cap-tied to England, delivered two assists in Palace’s 2-1 win over Brighton and Hove Albion at Selhurst Park. His creativity and composure in the final third were central to Palace’s success.

Joining them in the midfield selection are Mateus Fernandes (Southampton) and Brennan Johnson (Tottenham), while the forward line includes Jarrod Bowen (West Ham) and Evanilson (Bournemouth). The defensive line is anchored by Daniel Muñoz, Dara O’Shea, Fabian Schär and Keane Lewis-Potter, with Brentford’s Mark Flekken named in goal.

Editorial

We must take a moment to celebrate what is becoming a season of revitalisation for Alex Iwobi. After enduring criticism in previous years for inconsistency, his recent performances show a player transformed confident, assertive, and decisive. Against Liverpool, he wasn’t just present; he was pivotal. And that is no small feat against one of the toughest sides in the league.

His selection in the Premier League Team of the Week is well-deserved and symbolic of his upward trajectory. It proves that when given the freedom and responsibility to express himself, Iwobi can thrive. It’s a timely boost not only for Fulham but for the Super Eagles as they prepare for crucial international fixtures. This is the Iwobi Nigeria needs sharp, impactful, and relentless.

As for Eberechi Eze, his name alongside Iwobi’s will stir familiar feelings among Nigerian fans. He flirted with the national team once, and the door seemed open. But time, bureaucracy, and personal choices saw him don England’s colours instead. Still, it’s hard not to wonder what might have been. Regardless, his talent is undeniable, and this week, he reminded everyone just how influential he can be in full flow.

When Nigerian players light up Europe’s biggest stage, it’s more than individual brilliance it’s inspiration. For the next generation of talents watching from the streets of Lagos to London’s academies, this is proof that greatness is attainable. We salute Iwobi and Eze not just for their goals and assists, but for representing resilience, potential, and pride.

Did You Know?

1. Alex Iwobi is the nephew of Nigerian football legend Jay-Jay Okocha.
2. Eze was born in Greenwich, London, and was once released by Arsenal before finding success at QPR and Crystal Palace.
3. Iwobi made his senior debut for Nigeria in 2015 after switching allegiance from England, where he played at youth level.
4. Fulham’s win over Liverpool marked only their second Premier League victory over the Reds in the past decade.
5. WhoScored ratings are based on over 200 raw statistics per match, providing one of the most detailed performance assessments in football.