Some were in search of glory while others just needed an opportunity, but they all ended up leaving their mark in the Portuguese Primeira Liga which at different points in history has hosted some of Nigeria’s finest footballers
From deadly center-forwards to tricky wingers and even adventurous full-backs, Footynaija.com counts down the top ten Nigerian footballers with the best scoring impact in Portuguese league history.
10. Elderson Echiejile – 5 Goals (SC Braga)
We’re starting off with a left-back. Elderson wasn’t exactly known for banging in goals, but the Nigerian international brought defensive solidity and an attacking edge during his time at SC Braga. Joining in 2010 after a spell in France, Elderson made 73 league appearances, scoring 5 goals and contributing to Braga’s solid finishes in the league, including a runners-up spot in 2010/2011.
9. Savior Godwin – 5 Goals (Casa Pisa AC)
Godwin joined Casa Pisa AC in 2020 while the club still played in Portugal’s Segunda Liga and helped the club secure Primeira Liga promotion in his second season. In 34 Primeira Liga appearances, the pacy winger notched five goals in Casa Pisa AC colours leaving for Saudi Arabia in 2023.
8. Rashidi Yekini – 5 Goals (Vitoria Setubal)
The legendary Yekini, Nigeria’s all-time top scorer, also left his mark in Portugal, albeit briefly. After shining in Spain and Switzerland, Yekini joined Vitoria Setubal in 1997. He played 16 games and scored 5 goals. Though his time there was short, his trademark strength and finishing ability gave Portuguese defenders nightmares. For a man who scored Nigeria’s first-ever World Cup goal in 1994, this was just another chapter in an illustrious career.
7. Zaidu Sanusi – 6 Goals (Santa Clara, FC Porto)
Another left-back on this list? Yes, because Zaidu has been that impressive. After impressing at Santa Clara, he earned a big move to FC Porto in 2020. Since then, the Nigerian has become a key player, racking up over 100 league appearances and scoring 6 goals. His time at Porto has delivered one Primeira Liga title as well as several other domestic cups.
6. Philip Chidi – 6 Goals (Rio Ave)
Chidi might not be a household name for younger fans, but his consistency for Rio Ave earned him a spot here. With 84 appearances and 6 goals, Chidi was a workhorse striker who gave everything for his club during his years in Portugal.
5. Kevin Amuneke – 6 Goals (Vitoria Setubal, SC Braga)
Following in the footsteps of his famous brother Emmanuel, Kevin carved his own path in Portugal. Splitting his time between Vitoria Setubal and SC Braga, he netted six goals across 44 appearances. Kevin was a tricky forward who offered pace and direct attacking threat, always causing headaches for defenders.
4. Peter Etebo – 6 Goals (CD Feirense)
Before his spells in England and Spain, Etebo announced himself to Europe with Feirense. Normally a defensive midfielder, Etebo showcased his versatility and attacking instincts by scoring 6 goals in 41 games. His performances earned him a January move to Las Palmas and later Stoke City.
3. Emmanuel Amunike – 6 Goals (Sporting CP)
A Super Eagles legend and 1994 African Footballer of the Year, Amunike’s time at Sporting CP was short but impactful. Signing in 1994, the left winger scored 6 goals in 17 league appearances, forming a deadly partnership with the likes of Luís Figo. Unfortunately, injuries cut short what could have been an even greater chapter. But his contributions during Sporting’s title-chasing seasons remain iconic.
2. Sunny Kingsley – 7 Goals (SC Beira-Mar)
Kingsley might not have the global fame of some names here, but his Liga Portugal record speaks for itself. Over 61 appearances for Beira-Mar, he scored 7 goals and became a key attacking option for the club. Kingsley wasn’t a prolific scorer, but his technical ability and link-up play made him a crucial player. While Beira-Mar didn’t break into Portugal’s elite during his time, he left as one of the most influential Nigerians in their history.
1. Simy Nwankwo – 9 Goals (Gil Vicente FC)
And at the top of our list is Simy Nwankwo, the towering striker who first made waves in Portugal before conquering Italy. During his stint at Gil Vicente, Simy scored 9 goals in 45 appearances, using his height, strength, and aerial dominance to terrorize defenses. While his numbers may not seem astronomical, Simy was just getting started. His time in Portugal was the perfect launchpad to a career that later saw him become a Serie A cult hero at Salernitana.