Simon shines and Onuachu nets in European outings for Super Eagles stars

Super Eagles forwards Moses Simon and Paul Onuachu both found the net for their European clubs on Sunday, 31 August 2025.

Simon, recently signed by newly promoted Paris FC, shone brightly at the Stade Jean-Bouin. He struck and assisted in a dramatic 3–2 triumph over Metz. Initially, Sadibou Sane put Metz ahead, but Ilan Kebbal levelled from the spot. Simon then teed up Kebbal’s second in the 52nd minute.

Despite Boubakar Traore responding for Metz, Simon dispatched a composed finish in the 67th to restore Paris’s advantage. Substituted in the 90th minute to a standing ovation and replaced by Nouha Dicko, the 30 year old winger has already tallied two goals and one assist in just three league outings. His early contributions underline his pivotal role in the club’s survival campaign.

Over in Turkey, Onuachu continued his fine form for Trabzonspor. The tall striker, who joined permanently from Southampton this summer, opened the scoring with a soaring header from Oleksandr Zubkov’s pinpoint delivery, during the 1–1 draw against Samsunspor at Papara Park. Marius Mouandilmadji’s late equaliser denied Trabzonspor a win. Nevertheless, they remain in second place in the Süper Lig with ten points from four matches, behind a still unbeaten Galatasaray.

Editorial

Two contrasting yet equally encouraging stories unfolding for Nigeria’s attacking stars in Europe. Simon’s seamless integration into Paris FC is a breath of fresh air he hasn’t merely arrived he has made himself indispensable. His goal and assist in only his third league game send a message he belongs here.

We believe that the art of adaptation often defines a forward’s success. Simon’s calm finishing and vision in creating goals suggest more than mere talent they hint at maturity and consistency. What’s more, earning a standing ovation in your first weeks speaks volumes about his impact.

We note Onuachu’s departure from the Premier League was met with uncertainty, yet he continues to prove doubters wrong. His stunning header demonstrates aerial prowess, while his continued presence in the starting ranks of a top Turkish side confirms his value. Remaining second in the table also offers encouragement that his side can challenge at the top.

We trust that both players are building momentum, each in their own way. Simon’s flair and ambition could make him a talisman in Ligue 1, while Onuachu’s physical dominance and finishing remain a potent weapon in Turkey. They remind us that adaptability, confidence and clinical execution are vital for success abroad. These two performances suggest that the continent is only just beginning to witness their best.

Did You Know?

1. Moses Simon previously spent two seasons with Nantes in Ligue 1, where he delivered consistently before his move to Paris FC.

2. Paul Onuachu was the top scorer in the Belgian Pro League for the 2018–19 season with Genk, scoring 33 goals in 38 league appearances.

3. Simon played in the UEFA Europa League group stage with Nantes during the 2019–20 campaign, enhancing his European experience.

4. Onuachu stands at 2.01 metres (6 ft 7 in), making him one of the tallest professional footballers in Europe a factor that often gives him an aerial edge.

5. Before joining Trabzonspor, Onuachu enjoyed multiple Belgian league titles with Genk, winning back-to-back championships in 2018–19 and 2019–20.