BOXING ON THE PITCH!

The soccer action is heating up this festive season with some Nigerian players getting ready for Boxing Day clashes. Peter Akinbo, writing for PUNCH Sport Extra, looks at the Nigerians who will be in action today.

Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest will be facing off today, with defender Ola Aina being the only Nigerian in action for Forest against Newcastle. Aina has been a key player at the back for Forest this season, contributing one goal and one assist in 12 games.

Fulham’s Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey will be aiming for a quick recovery against Bournemouth after suffering a shock home defeat to Burnley in their last game. Both players have been important for Fulham this season, with Iwobi finding the back of the net three times and Bassey contributing three clean sheets in 13 Premier League games.

Luton Town duo Gabriel Osho and Elijah Adebayo are gearing up to face Sheffield United, with both players aiming to help Luton move out of the bottom three. Ndidi and Iheanacho will be in action for Leicester City against Ipswich Town, hoping to continue their strong performances in this match.

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Semi Ajayi will be a key figure for West Brom as they take on Norwich in their Boxing Day clash, aiming to make a significant impact from the backline. Also, there will be a clash of brothers in Belgium as Genk’s Tolu Arokodare and Yira Sor face off against Antwerp’s Alhassan Yusuf, Chidera Ejuke, and George Ilenikhena.

Raphael Onyedika is set to be a part of Club Brugge’s line-up in their home game against Union St. Gilloise, while Gent’s Gift Orban will be seeking a repeat performance to help Gent secure a favorable outcome in their match against Kortrijk.

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