Super Eagles stars experienced contrasting fortunes in the English FA Cup quarter finals matches played on Saturday, Sports247 reports.
Fulham’s Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey bowed out, while Taiwo Awoniyi and Ola Aina propelled Nottingham Forest into the semi-finals, the team’s first appearance at the stage since 1991.
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Fulham’s FA Cup journey ended with a comprehensive 3-0 defeat to Crystal Palace, despite the efforts of Iwobi and Bassey.
Alex Iwobi played 82 minutes, operating in midfield where he attempted to link play but struggled to influence the attack.
He completed 86% of his passes, registered one shot off target, and created a half-chance that was not converted.
Calvin Bassey played the full 90 minutes in central defense. He made crucial clearances, interceptions and one block, but Fulham’s backline was ultimately overwhelmed by Palace’s clinical finishing led by Eberechi Eze.
The loss marked the end of Fulham’s silverware hopes for the season.
Nottingham Forest secured a dramatic semi-final spot, edging Brighton 4-3 on penalties after a tense 0-0 draw in regulation time.
Taiwo Awoniyi played 61 minutes and was a key attacking threat.
He registered one shots on , held up play effectively, and won several aerial duels.
Though he did not score, his physical presence troubled Brighton’s defense.
Ola Aina played the full 120 minutes at left-back, delivering an outstanding defensive performance. He won six duels, made three crucial tackles, and blocked a goal-bound shot to keep Brighton at bay.
Forest held their nerve in the penalty shootout, converting four of their five spot-kicks to seal the win.
While Iwobi and Bassey’s FA Cup dreams were dashed, Awoniyi and Aina will continue their quest for glory, keeping Nigerian representation alive in the competition. Nottingham Forest now set their sights on a historic semi-final at Wembley.
With Awoniyi and Aina still in the competition, they now have the chance to join the list of Nigerian FA Cup winners if Nottingham Forest can go all the way.
The list include Daniel Amokachi, who Became the first Nigerian to win the FA Cup with Everton in 1995. He famously scoring twice in the semi-final to help Everton reach the final.
Celestine Babayaro (Chelsea, 2000) – The former left-back was part of Chelsea’s squad that won the FA Cup at the turn of the millennium.
Kanu Nwankwo , who won with Arsenal in 2002, and with Portsmouth in 2008 where he scored in the final.
John Mikel Obi who lifted the trophy thrice with Chelsea, 2007, 2009, 2010, 2012)
Victor Moses also won it with Chelsea in 2018 under the reign of Antonio Conte.
