Sports

Sizzling Showdown: Saudi Pro League’s Golden Boot Race Heats Up as International Stars Shine

Published

2 years ago

November 14, 2023

The Saudi Pro League is humming with activity after an opulent summer of moves, as high-profile players make their mark in the Middle East. In this feature, we dig into the enthralling race for the Golden Boot, spotlighting the spectacular performances that have lit up the league.

Leading the charge is the legendary Cristiano Ronaldo, who has taken the Saudi football scene by storm with his stellar performances for Al-Nassr. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner has been nothing short of sensational, notching an impressive 13 goals in just 12 appearances. Ronaldo’s goal-scoring spree includes a memorable hat-trick against Al-Fateh in August and a crucial brace against title rivals Al-Ahli the following month. Adding to his prolific goal tally, Ronaldo boasts an equally impressive seven assists, sharing the top spot in the division.

Hot on Ronaldo’s heels is the Serbian striker Aleksandar Mitrovic, who seamlessly adapted to Saudi Arabian football after joining Al-Hilal from Fulham in August. With 10 goals in 11 league appearances, Mitrovic has become an integral part of the current league leaders. His standout moment came in a thrilling encounter against Al-Ittihad, where he netted a memorable hat-trick to secure a priceless 4-3 victory.

The goal-scoring prowess doesn’t stop there, as Brazilian maestro Anderson Talisca and French star Karim Benzema are in hot pursuit, both tied with 8 goals each. Talisca faced a setback at the beginning of the season, missing four of Al-Nassr’s initial five games due to injury. However, the Brazilian has made a triumphant return to full fitness, making a resounding impact on the league.

As the Saudi Pro League unfolds, the race for the Golden Boot promises to be a thrilling spectacle, with international football icons showcasing their skills and making a lasting imprint on the vibrant football landscape of the Middle East.

News

Foden Named UCL Player of the Week, Osimhen Second

Published

20 hours ago

November 6, 2025

By Onyeanya Ebere Immaculata

Manchester City’s Phil Foden has been voted UEFA Champions League Player of the Week for Matchday 4, edging out Victor Osimhen of Galatasaray, who finished second.

UEFA announced the results on Thursday after a series of standout performances across Europe.

Foden earned the honour with two goals and an assist in City’s 4-1 win over Borussia Dortmund, completing 92% of his passes and creating four chances.

Osimhen, meanwhile, became the second Nigerian ever to score a Champions League hat-trick, inspiring Galatasaray’s 3-0 victory over Ajax.

Other nominees were Carlos Forbs of Club Brugge and Mikel Merino of Arsenal.

Sports

Lookman, Atalanta Coach in Heated Touchline Exchange

Published

1 day ago

November 6, 2025

Admin

By Samuel Adeola

Atalanta winger Ademola Lookman clashed with his manager, Ivan Juric, during their 1-0 UEFA Champions League win over Marseille on Wednesday night.

The incident occurred in the 75th minute when Lookman, visibly frustrated, reacted angrily after being substituted while the game was goalless.

Juric confronted him on the touchline before CEO Luca Percassi and captain Marten de Roon intervened.

Lazar Samardzic later scored the decisive goal for the Serie A side.

After the match, Juric was seen speaking with Lookman again, though reports say it remains unclear whether the matter was resolved.

Sports

Osimhen Hat-trick Sinks Ajax in Amsterdam

Published

1 day ago

November 6, 2025

By Huldah Shado

Victor Osimhen fired Galatasaray to a 3-0 victory over Ajax at the Johan Cruyff Arena on Wednesday, scoring a stunning hat-trick that included two penalties.

After a goalless first half, the Nigerian striker opened the scoring in the 59th minute with a powerful header from Leroy Sané’s cross.

He doubled the lead seven minutes later from the spot after Youri Baas handled in the box, before completing his hat-trick with another penalty in the 78th minute following a second handball by Gerald Alders.

Ajax showed flashes of intent through Oscar Gloukh and Mika Godts but failed to break Galatasaray’s solid defense.

Osimhen’s treble makes him only the second Nigerian ever to score a hat-trick in the UEFA Champions League, sealing a memorable night for the Turkish champions in Amsterdam.