Onuachu, Ndidi, Yohanna lead 12 Nigerians into Europa, Conference League playoffs

Twelve Nigerian footballers will participate in the playoff rounds of the Europa League and Conference League, with each tie carrying the potential to secure a spot in the league phase, writes Peter Akinbo.

Paul Onuachu of Trabzonspor, who led the Super Lig with 22 goals last season, will be instrumental in Trabzonspor's attack as they host Ferencvaros in the first leg of their playoff tie.

Beşiktaş midfielder Wilfred Ndidi, who has been a key figure in the Turkish club's recent defensive solidity, will play a crucial role as they take on Kauno Zalgiris.

Nigeria's goalkeeper, Francis Uzoho, will be tasked with keeping a clean sheet for Omonia Nicosia when they face Sint-Truiden in their Europa League playoff.

Viktoria Plzen will be without Red Star Belgrade's key attacker in an away fixture against the Czech club.

Ferencvaros forward Bamidele Yusuf will look to challenge Trabzonspor's defense when the Hungarian club visits Turkey.

Brighton's Zadok Yohanna will be part of a team opening their Conference League campaign away against Tromso.

Ajax's Tolu Arokodare will look to add goal-scoring prowess to an Ajax side aiming for a positive result against Sion.

Rangers' Emmanuel Fernandez will hope to stabilize a team still finding its footing under new management as they host Jablonec.