African Stars Shine in Europe: Salah Saves Liverpool, Kudus, Hakimi & Others Deliver Memorable Moments

The European football season has wrapped up with thrilling performances, and once again, African players made their presence felt across the continent’s top leagues. From late goals to stunning finishes, here’s a recap of how some of Africa’s finest left their mark this weekend.

🇪🇬 Mohamed Salah (Liverpool, England)

Mohamed Salah capped off a phenomenal season with a dramatic equalizer for Liverpool in their 1-1 draw against Crystal Palace. His 29th goal of the season ensured the Premier League champions avoided a final-day defeat. The Egyptian talisman also registered 18 assists, finishing the campaign as the Premier League Golden Boot winner for the fourth time—matching the record. His brilliance earned him both the Football Writers’ and the PFA Player of the Year awards.

🇸🇳 Ismaila Sarr (Crystal Palace, England)

Sarr threatened to spoil Liverpool’s party with an early strike in the 9th minute, giving Palace a shock lead. His explosive pace and eye for goal have been key for the FA Cup winners throughout the season.

🇬🇭 Antoine Semenyo (Bournemouth, England)

Semenyo ended the season on a high, netting a late brace that helped Bournemouth seal a 2-0 victory over relegated Leicester City. The Ghanaian forward showcased his finishing prowess with a close-range goal and a clinical strike from the edge of the area.

🇨🇮 Amad Diallo (Manchester United, England)

Rising star Amad Diallo continued to impress, heading in a superb Bruno Fernandes cross to give United the lead in a 2-0 win over Aston Villa. The Ivorian winger’s development has been a bright spot for the Red Devils this season.

🇬🇭 Mohammed Kudus (West Ham, England)

Kudus delivered a late gem for West Ham, sealing a 3-1 win over Ipswich with a beautifully placed shot after a slick exchange with teammate Guido Rodriguez. The Ghanaian midfielder has consistently turned heads with his flair and finishing.

🇨🇲 Bryan Mbeumo (Brentford, England)

Mbeumo’s 20th goal of the season gave Brentford a promising start against Wolves, capitalizing on a mistake from Rayan Ait-Nouri. Despite the 1-1 draw, Mbeumo’s consistent form has been crucial for Brentford’s European push.

🇿🇼 Marshall Munetsi (Wolves, England)

Munetsi stunned Brentford’s hopes of European qualification with a thunderous strike from 20 yards, leveling the match late on. The Zimbabwean midfielder’s impact has grown significantly this season.

🇪🇸 In Spain

🇨🇮 Yan Diomande (Leganes)

Despite Leganes’ relegation, 18-year-old Ivorian winger Yan Diomande was a standout in their 3-0 win over Real Valladolid. He assisted the opening goal and added a dazzling solo effort of his own—his second in just four games. A promising future awaits.

🇸🇳 Pape Gueye (Villarreal)

Senegalese midfielder Pape Gueye powered Villarreal to a 4-2 win against Sevilla with a brilliant brace. His performances have been instrumental in helping Villarreal clinch a Champions League spot.

🇫🇷 In France

🇲🇦 Achraf Hakimi (Paris Saint-Germain)

Hakimi added another trophy to his collection, scoring in PSG’s 3-0 French Cup final win over Reims. The Moroccan defender finished off a smooth team move, underscoring his reputation as one of the most attacking full-backs in world football.

Final Thoughts

This season, African footballers across Europe didn’t just participate—they dominated, inspired, and made headlines. From Salah’s unmatched consistency to the rising stars like Semenyo and Diomande, the future of African football continues to shine brightly on the global stage.