Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen loses Baller of the Week to 26-year-old Falcon

Ashleigh Plumptre returns with a bang after her long layoff.

Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen loses Baller of the Week to 26-year-old Falcon

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 11:28 - 21.10.2024

Super Eagles main man Victor Osimhen's bicycle kick was not enough to make him Naija Stars Abroad's Baller of the Week.

Super Falcons defender Ashleigh Plumptre has claimed the coveted Naija Stars Abroad's Baller of the Week award, outshining Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen. 

This development following Pulse Sports Nigeria’s report highlighting the impressive performances of Nigerian players across global leagues at the weekend.

Osimhen, the 25-year-old Super Eagles talisman, seemed a strong contender for the award after his spectacular performance for Galatasaray in the Turkish Super Lig. 

Coming on as a super-sub, Osimhen netted a remarkable bicycle kick - a goal he had long aspired to score - contributing to Galatasaray's 3-0 victory over Antalyaspor. 

Victor Osimhen and the man he replaced Mauro Icardi after their easy win against Antalyaspor.a

Despite the goal's aesthetic appeal and Osimhen's impact on the game, it wasn't enough to secure him the weekly honour.

Instead, the spotlight turned to England-born Super Falcons star Plumptre, who delivered an extraordinary performance for Saudi Arabian giants Al-Ittihad. 

Ashleigh Plumptre returns with a bang after her long layoff.

The 26-year-old defender, who recently returned from a long injury layoff that caused her to miss the Olympics, put on a show in the SAFF Cup. 

In a match against Jeddah, Plumptre not only found the back of the net herself but also provided three assists, playing a pivotal role in Al-Ittihad's emphatic 13-1 victory.

Ashleigh Plumptre | Instagram

Plumptre's exceptional display not only overshadowed Osimhen's bicycle kick but also edged out another strong contender, Olarewaju Kayode, who had notched a hat-trick in Turkey.

This recognition comes as a significant boost for Plumptre, who has been working hard to regain her form after her injury setback. Her performance demonstrates her versatility as a defender, contributing substantially to both defensive duties and offensive play.

Olarewaju Kayode celebrates after his hattrick.
Olarewaju Kayode celebrates after his hattrick.

The Baller of the Week award shows the depth of talent in Nigerian football, with players making significant impacts across various leagues. 

While Osimhen continues to be a key figure for the Super Eagles, Plumptre's recognition highlights the growing prominence of the Super Falcons on the global stage.