African Goal Scorers of the Weekend: Aubameyang, Clinton Njie, Gradel Shine
This weekend’s action across Europe’s top leagues featured some stellar performances by African players. From dramatic derby clashes to crucial goals in the battle for survival, African internationals were at the forefront of the action. Here’s a round-up of the African goal scorers and standout performances:
France – Ligue 1, J33
The 101st derby between Lyon and Saint-Étienne (2-2) lived up to the hype, with Clinton Njie and Max-Alain Gradel making their mark. Njie opened the scoring for Lyon, while Gradel equalized for Saint-Étienne from the penalty spot.
Elsewhere, Lille handed Bordeaux a setback with a 2-0 win. The Mastiffs were inspired by Sofiane Boufal, who provided two assists, and Adama Traoré (Mali), who scored the second goal.
In Reims’ first win of 2015, they defeated Bastia 2-1, with goals from David N’Gog (French-Cameroonian) and Aissa Mandi (Algerian). Giovanni Sio (Ivorian) pulled one back for Bastia.
Metz kept their survival hopes alive with a crucial 3-1 win over Lens. Bouna Sarr (Guinea) and Modibo Miaga (Mali) added their names to the scoresheet after Malouda had opened the scoring.
Rennes secured a point with a late goal from Habibou, who salvaged a 1-1 draw against Monaco.
In a massive blow to Marseille’s title hopes, Nantes triumphed 1-0, with Serge Gakpé (Togolese) capitalizing on a defensive error from Rod Fanni.
England – Premier League, J33
In Stoke City’s 2-1 victory over Southampton, Mame Biram Diouf (Senegal) was on the scoresheet, opening the scoring for the Potters.
Germany – Bundesliga, J29
In the Schalke vs Wolfsburg (1-1) game, Leeroy Sané (Senegal) continued to impress with a brilliant solo run and goal past Wolfsburg’s goalkeeper Benaglio.
Meanwhile, Dortmund returned to winning ways with a 3-0 victory over Paderborn. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (Gabon) played a pivotal role, first providing an assist and then scoring his 13th goal of the season.
Italy – Serie A, D31
After more than a year without a league goal, Ishak Belfodil (Algerian) made his mark for Parma, scoring an equalizer against Empoli in a 1-1 draw.
Weekend Highlights:
Clinton Njie and Max-Alain Gradel shine in the Lyon vs Saint-Étienne derby.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang extends his tally with another goal for Dortmund.
Mame Biram Diouf scores in Stoke City’s victory over Southampton.
Leeroy Sané dazzles with a stunning goal for Schalke.
Serge Gakpé makes the difference for Nantes against Marseille.
With Aubameyang, Njie, and Gradel all showcasing their exceptional form this weekend, African players continue to make their mark across Europe’s top leagues, playing pivotal roles in their clubs’ fortunes.
