Following Hakimi’s UEFA Super Cup appearance, Nteka and Semenyo prepare for crucial league openers

African footballers continue to make their mark on European football, with two key players set to feature in important fixtures this weekend following Achraf Hakimi’s recent UEFA Super Cup appearance.

Hakimi featured in UEFA Super Cup

Moroccan international Achraf Hakimi played a key role as Paris Saint-Germain defeated Tottenham Hotspur to claim the UEFA Super Cup on Wednesday, August 13. The 26-year-old right-back, who has established himself as one of Europe’s most dynamic defenders, brought both attacking flair and defensive solidity to PSG’s victorious performance in the continental showpiece.

Since joining the French champions in 2021, Hakimi has become a cornerstone of the team, with his contract recently extended through 2029. The Madrid-born player, who holds the vice-captaincy at PSG, has accumulated 337 career appearances and scored 47 goals across spells with Real Madrid, Borussia Dortmund and Inter Milan before his current stint in Paris.

Hakimi’s ability to function effectively as both a traditional full-back and an attacking outlet made him particularly valuable in manager Luis Enrique’s tactical system during the high-profile encounter. His memorable goal in PSG’s Champions League Final victory over Inter has demonstrated his capacity to deliver in crucial moments.

Nteka ready for La Liga challenge

Angola’s Randy Nteka will look to make his mark when Rayo Vallecano travel to face Girona in their La Liga season opener on Friday, August 15, at 19:00. The 27-year-old attacking midfielder has become an important figure at Vallecas since joining in 2021.

After renewing his contract until 2028, Nteka enjoyed a productive 2024-25 season, registering three goals in 17 appearances – his best goal tally for the club. Manager Iñigo Pérez has praised the player’s versatility and impact, recently highlighting his “extraordinary physical power” and tactical flexibility.

The Paris-born player, who began his senior career in France before moving to Spain, offers Rayo valuable options both centrally and on the flanks, with 254 career appearances and 32 goals to his name.

Semenyo faces Anfield test

Ghanaian winger Antoine Semenyo will encounter one of football’s most intimidating atmospheres when AFC Bournemouth visit Liverpool at Anfield on Friday, August 15, at 21:00, in their Premier League season opener.

The 25-year-old London-born forward has emerged as a key player under manager Andoni Iraola’s high-intensity system. Last season, Semenyo posted impressive statistics with 11 goals and 9 assists, while his shot volume ranked among the Premier League’s highest – exceeded only by Mohamed Salah, Erling Haaland, and Cole Palmer.

Since joining Bournemouth from Bristol City, Semenyo has developed into a versatile attacking threat capable of operating across the front three. His pressing game and physical presence have made him integral to Bournemouth’s tactical approach, contributing to their competitive performances in England’s top flight.

All three matches will be broadcast live across SuperSport’s network of channels, with streaming options available through DStv Stream and GOtv Stream applications. The fixtures represent significant opportunities for each African player to showcase their talents on prominent stages within European football.

These appearances underscore the continued prominence of African talent in Europe’s elite competitions, with players from Morocco, Angola and Ghana representing their nations at the highest level of club football.