It felt as though the world sat up and took notice of the opening weekend of Major League Soccer.
The addition of two new franchises—both alike in glamour and in glitz—and the traditional parading of faded stars and greying heroes piqued the interest of the international media.
Nigerians should be taking note as well, not simply because of the historical and thriving interaction and exchange between the States and our nation, but because of the reams of Nigerian talent currently featuring in the top tier.
Over the coming weeks and months the Goal Nigeria team will look to bring you in-depth coverage of and exclusive interviews with these players, but for now, here’s our complete guide of Nigerian players in Major League Soccer.
Seattle Sounders
From a Nigerian point of view, it’s hard to start anywhere but the Seattle Sounders.
The Rave Green boast the finest of all the Nigerian players in the division.
That, of course, is Obafemi Martins, the former Newcastle United and Inter Milan forward whose career in the green of the Sounders has flourished as his career in the green of Nigeria has faded.
The 30-year-old was the fifth-joint top scorer in MLS last season and, in tandem with Clint Dempsey, will be hoping to add to his trophy cabinet this term.
Martins | Can his partnership with Clint Dempsey fire Sounders to the title?
San Jose Earthquakes
Defensive midfielder Fatai Alashe was only drafted to Major League Soccer in January, and while it will be demanding for him to step up at this level, he has the work rate and the bite that Dom Kinnear’s Earthquakes will be looking for in midfield.
Similarly, former Sacramento State forward Chimdum Mez(22) was also brought to the club in January and brings a fine college pedigree.
Chicago Fire
Chicage Fire opened the season with an all-Nigerian strike force; the rapid Kennedy Igboananike partnering Quincy Amarikwa up top.
The Fire didn’t do too well in that opener—they lost 2-0 away to Los Angeles Galaxy—but there were signs that both can contribute this term.
As the season progresses, both of these two will face a challenge on their places from Ghana international David Accam as they look to end a frustrating few years for the Fire.
Young forward Kingsley Bryce was drafted to the Fire in January, although it remains to be seen what role he will play this term.
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