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The group phase of the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League wrapped up on Wednesday, featuring notable contributions from Nigerian footballers, according to Soccernet.ng.
Across multiple venues in Europe, 18 matches unfolded simultaneously as the continent’s top clubs battled fiercely to secure their spots in the knockout stages.
Several prominent Nigerian talents featured prominently for their respective teams. While all but one advanced beyond the group stage, none secured direct entry into the round of 16’s top eight automatic qualifiers. Instead, they ranked between 9th and 24th, meaning all will compete in the upcoming round of 16 playoffs.
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– UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) January 28, 2026
Below, Soccernet.ng highlights five Nigerian players who will be key figures in the knockout playoff phase of the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League.
Victor Osimhen: Galatasaray‘s Forward Leading the Charge
Heading into the decisive final group match, Galatasaray occupied a playoff position but needed at least a draw against Manchester City to guarantee advancement. Despite Osimhen’s persistent efforts-testing goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma on three occasions-the Turkish side succumbed to a 2-0 defeat against the English powerhouse.
Fortunately, favorable outcomes in other matches allowed Galatasaray to clinch 20th place in the overall rankings, securing their spot in the round of 16 playoffs.
Bruno Onyemaechi: Olympiacos‘ Defensive Asset
Onyemaechi came off the bench in the 87th minute during Olympiacos’ crucial final group game against Ajax at the Johan Cruyff Arena. Prior to this fixture, the Greek champions were outside the playoff bracket and required a victory to break into the top 24.
Thanks to decisive goals from Gelson Martins and Santiago Hezze, Olympiacos secured a vital win, ensuring their progression. Onyemaechi and his teammates now await the playoff draw, hoping for a favorable matchup to advance further.
Raphael Onyedika: Midfield Dynamo for Club Brugge
Club Brugge clinched a spot in the playoffs with a commanding 3-0 victory over Marseille on the final day of group matches-a historic result for the Belgian side. Onyedika, a pivotal figure in midfield, played the entire match, contributing significantly to the team’s dominant performance.
George Ilenikhena: Monaco’s Emerging Talent
Monaco secured their place in the round of 16 playoffs after a goalless draw against Juventus at home. This single point was critical, as any less would have jeopardized their 21st-place finish in the rankings. Although Ilenikhena did not feature on the pitch during this match, he remains an important squad member as Monaco prepares for the next phase.
Ademola Lookman: Atalanta’s Creative Force
Atalanta fell 1-0 to Royale Union SG in their final group match, a result that dashed their hopes of automatic qualification. Had they won, Atalanta would have reached 16 points and 9th place, narrowly missing direct qualification due to goal difference. Instead, they finished 15th with 13 points.
Lookman started the match but was substituted in the 51st minute, as Atalanta now prepare for the challenging playoff round.
