Yusuf Shines in Europa League Again — Calls Grow for Super Eagles Call-Up

Bamidele Yusuf delivered another outstanding display in Europe on Thursday night as Ferencvárosi TC secured a 1–1 draw with Fenerbahçe S.K. in their UEFA Europa League fixture.

The 24 year old Nigerian forward was among the most influential figures on the pitch his blistering pace, creative interplay and relentless movement stretched the Fenerbahçe defence throughout the match.

Yusuf came agonisingly close to scoring twice, triggering loud cheers from the home fans when two thunderous efforts rattled the crossbar. He remained a constant attacking threat until he was substituted in the 73rd minute, exiting to warm applause from the Ferencváros supporters who have watched him blossom into a central figure for the Hungarian champions.

His recent run of form highlighted by greater confidence, sharper decision-making and more precise finishing  has reignited discussion among analysts and fans over his readiness for a call-up to the Super Eagles. With Nigeria looking to deepen its attacking options ahead of upcoming fixtures, Yusuf’s continental performances are strengthening his case.

If he continues on this upward trajectory, the dynamic forward may soon join the growing crop of Europe-based Nigerian talents pushing for inclusion in the national set-up.

Editorial

There is a special clarity in the night when a young footballer seizes the stage  and for Bamidele Yusuf, last night’s draw in Istanbul felt like more than a point gained. It felt like a declaration. In Europe’s unforgiving arena, he moved with urgency and intent. The crossbars trembled under his shots. The crowd roared. The defenders shifted uncomfortably. In that pressure cooker, Yusuf looked ready.

Nigerian football seldom rewards patience, too often, youth flickers but fades under expectation, gets lost in politics or misplaced ambition. But here is a young man forcing attention not with noise, but with execution. His pace, his directness, his willingness to hurt defences these are not the hallmarks of a momentary flourish. They are the signatures of a player on the cusp.

What matters now is not the praise it is timing. For the national team, for the Super Eagles, the calculus of selection must evolve. Watching from afar, a league ticket or a flash in training won’t suffice. What Yusuf offers, when fit and focused, is European-honed pace, continental experience, and hunger. That should make him more than a candidate for a call-up it should make him essential.

Africa’s football isn’t just about raw talent. It’s about mettle under cold, hard floodlights. And last night, Yusuf showed he is beginning to have both.

Did You Know?

1. Before joining Ferencváros, Bamidele Yusuf scored 18 goals in the 2024/25 season for FK Vojvodina in Serbia, making him one of the top-scoring Nigerian players in Europe.
2. Yusuf signed a four-year contract with Ferencváros in September 2025, marking a significant milestone in his career as he stepped up to compete in European competitions for the Hungarian champions.
3. His versatility comfortable playing as a winger or in a more central attacking role gives him tactical value, offering flexibility to systems that demand both width and central penetration.
4. Yusuf has experience in multiple European leagues, having previously played in Slovakia (for Spartak Trnava), Portugal (for Estoril Praia) and Serbia before moving to Hungary a journey that reflects adaptability to different football environments.
5. Despite his impressive club form, Yusuf has yet to earn his first senior call-up to the Super Eagles meaning his recent Europa League performances are being watched closely as many call for him to be given a chance at international level.