Super Eagles stars Lookman, Chukwueze, Onyedika learn UCL playoff opponents

The UEFA Champions League playoff draw took place on Friday in Nyon, Switzerland, setting up a series of intriguing clashes as 16 teams battle for a place in the Round of 16, Soccernet.football reports.

Four Nigerian stars — Ademola Lookman, Raphael Onyedika, Samuel Chukwueze, and George Ilenikhena — discovered their opponents as they prepare for crucial knockout fixtures next month.

One of the standout ties will see two Super Eagles stars go head-to-head as Ademola Lookman’s Atalanta take on Raphael Onyedika’s Club Brugge.

Lookman, who has been in superb form this season, faces a race against time to regain full fitness ahead of the first leg, which will take place at the Jan Breydel Stadium on February 11 or 12. The return fixture is scheduled for February 18 or 19 at the Gewiss Stadium in Bergamo.

The Nigerian forward has been instrumental for Atalanta in the competition, registering four goals and one assist in six appearances. His influence could be key as the Italian side look to secure their place in the next round.

Onyedika will look to be in top form for the encounter after netting his first goal in the competition against Manchester City this week.

Meanwhile, Samuel Chukwueze and AC Milan have been drawn against Dutch champions Feyenoord in what promises to be another exciting encounter.

Milan will travel to Stadion Feijenoord for the first leg before hosting the return fixture at the San Siro. The Rossoneri, boasting a rich European pedigree, will be favourites to progress against their Eredivisie opponents.

Despite a challenging season, Chukwueze could play a vital role in Milan’s push for the last 16, as he looks to rediscover the form that made him a key acquisition for the Italian giants.

Meanwhile, George Ilenikhena’s AS Monaco face a stern test against Portuguese heavyweights Benfica.

Monaco will play the first leg at the Stade Louis II before heading to the Estádio da Luz for the return match.

Ilenikhena has already made his mark in the competition, notably scoring the winner against Barcelona in the group stage opener.

His attacking threat will be crucial as Monaco attempt to overcome a Benfica side with a strong European record.

UCL fixtures

Feyenoord v AC Milan
Club Brugge v Atalanta
AS Monaco v Benfica
Brest v Paris St-Germain
Manchester City v Real Madrid
Juventus v PSV
Sporting v Borussia Dortmund
Celtic v Bayern Munich