This past weekend, African footballers continued to make their mark in Europe’s top leagues, delivering impressive performances for their clubs. Among the standout players was Bryan Mbeumo of Cameroon, whose scoring streak for Brentford in the English Premier League shows no signs of slowing down. As these players head into international duty, including the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, their contributions remain vital to both club and country.

ENGLAND

Bryan Mbeumo (Brentford) & Rayan Ait-Nouri (Wolves)  

Cameroonian forward Bryan Mbeumo continued his fine form by scoring in Brentford’s 5-3 victory over Wolves. His penalty marked his sixth goal in seven league games, making him one of the Premier League’s top scorers this season, second only to Erling Haaland of Manchester City, who has 10 goals. Meanwhile, Algeria’s Rayan Ait-Nouri netted a consolation goal for Wolves, but it wasn’t enough to change their fortunes as they remain at the bottom of the table.

Mohammed Kudus (West Ham)  

Ghanaian midfielder Mohammed Kudus opened his Premier League account with a goal in West Ham’s dominant 4-1 win over Ipswich. Kudus headed in from close range after Michail Antonio’s shot struck the crossbar, helping his team secure a vital three points.

Yankuba Minteh – Brighton  

Gambia’s Yankuba Minteh was the catalyst in Brighton’s remarkable comeback against Tottenham. After falling behind 2-0, Minteh capitalized on a defensive error to score his first Premier League goal, sparking Brighton’s 3-2 victory.

ITALY

Jordan Zemura  – Udinese

Zimbabwean international Jordan Zemura made the difference for Udinese in their Serie A clash against Lecce. Zemura scored the game’s only goal with a stunning free-kick in the 75th minute, propelling Udinese to a 1-0 win. The victory moved Udinese to fifth place in the standings, just three points behind leaders Napoli. Udinese coach Kosta Runjaic praised Zemura’s versatility and potential, emphasizing his value to the team.

GERMANY

Omar Marmoush (Eintracht Frankfurt)

Egyptian striker Omar Marmoush was the hero for Eintracht Frankfurt, scoring twice in a 3-3 draw against Bayern Munich, including a crucial injury-time equalizer. His late strike punished a lapse in Bayern’s defense, denying them a comfortable lead in the Bundesliga title race. Marmoush is currently the top scorer in the Bundesliga, with eight goals this season.

Victor Boniface (Bayer Leverkusen)

Nigerian forward Victor Boniface found the net for the fourth time this season in Bayer Leverkusen’s 2-2 draw with newly promoted Holstein Kiel. Despite his efforts, Leverkusen let a two-goal lead slip away. Boniface’s goal-scoring prowess will be key if Leverkusen is to mount a challenge against Bayern Munich for the Bundesliga title.

FRANCE

Marshall Munetsi (Reims)  

Marshall Munetsi of Zimbabwe continued his impressive run in Ligue 1, wearing the captain’s armband and scoring his third goal in four games as Reims defeated Montpellier 4-2. The win helped Reims maintain their position in fourth place, tied with Marseille on points but trailing on goal difference. Ivory Coast’s Oumar Diakite also contributed with a goal for Reims, who remain unbeaten in six matches since their opening-day loss to Lille.

M’Bala Nzola (Lens)

Angolan striker M’Bala Nzola added to his goal tally for Lens, scoring in their 2-2 draw against Strasbourg. It marked Nzola’s second goal in three Ligue 1 appearances since joining Lens on loan from Fiorentina. Nzola’s presence has been a valuable addition to Lens’ attacking options as they aim for a strong finish in the French league.

As these players shift their focus to international duty, the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers will be crucial. Bryan Mbeumo will be looking to carry his club form into Cameroon’s matches against Kenya in Yaoundé and Uganda in Kampala. Meanwhile, players like Mohammed Kudus and Omar Marmoush are also expected to play key roles for their respective national teams during the qualifying rounds.

The performances of African footballers across Europe highlight the depth of talent the continent has to offer. From Mbeumo’s scoring consistency in the Premier League to Marmoush’s heroics in the Bundesliga, these players continue to elevate their clubs and national teams. As they head into the international break, fans can look forward to seeing them shine on the African stage, carrying the hopes of their nations in the race for AFCON 2025 qualification.