After nearly five months hiatus, the Champions League returns on Tuesday.
As usual, Europe’s elite club competition promises a glut of excitement.
Nigerian players are not left out of the party.
Although there’s been a tremendous decline in representation, the country’s flag would still fly when the whistle is sounded.
Here are three Nigerians to keep an eye on.
1 – Henry Onyekuru, Galatasaray
With Victor Moses’ Chelsea missing, Onyekuru is Nigeria’s biggest star in this year’s edition. The 21-year-old on loan from Everton would carry Galatasaray’s goal threat in Group D against Lokomotiv Moscow, FC Porto and Schalke 04.
Onyekuru is no stranger to the grand stage. He featured in all six Anderlecht’s group games last term, including both legs against Barcelona.
2 – Brian Idowu, Lokomotiv Moscow
Idowu will come toe-to-toe with Super Eagles teammate, Onyekuru, in Matchday one on Tuesday. Both players, who were part of Nigeria’s last international fixtures, will clash in Turkey with former at advantage.
Unlike Onyekuru, Idowu has never cut it at this level. The 25-year-old would be poised to make a good account on his maiden outing.
3 – Kayode Olanrewaju, Shakhtar Donetsk
The first round of fixtures may come too soon for Kayode who is currently recuperating from an injury. Still, the 25-year-old is among Nigeria’s biggest hopes in the year’s competition. He would clash with former club, Manchester City, Hoffenheim and Lyon in Group C.
Despite being a nomad, Kayode is pretty much an apprentice at this level. Shakhtar will be hoping the Nigerian isn’t overwhelmed by the atmosphere.
