LONDON BOYS

BAFANA BAFANA TAKE ON NIGERIA IN A CRUCIAL 2026 WORLD CUP QUALIFIER THIS MONTH, WITH MANY OF THE SUPER EAGLES HAILING FROM LONDON AND NOT LAGOS

- By Mark Gleeson

For the massive population that Nigeria boasts, more and more members of their national team, the Super Eagles, hail from outside the country, particularly London's 'Little Lagos'.

These Anglo-Nigerians are potentially key to their chances of overcoming Bafana in the key World Cup qualifier and are reflective of a longstanding trend for many African countries - tapping into the Diaspora among those who have emigrated to Europe for talent to bolster the national team.

For Nigeria, London offers a little pocket of excellence. There is a wealth of talent emerging from the city's strong Nigerian community, starting with Ademola Lookman of Atalanta, the reigning African footballer of the year.

Then add in Fulham pair of Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey plus Semi Ajayi (Hull City), Joe Aribo (Southampton), Ola Aina (Nottingham Forest) and Bright Osayi-Samuel, who moved to Birmingham City in the Championship in July.