From Guirassy’s match-winning brace to Bouaddi’s composed midfield display, these five African players made their mark on the opening night of the 2026/27 UEFA Champions League.
The 2026/27 UEFA Champions League got underway with several African players taking centre stage across Europe.
While some delivered decisive goals, others impressed through their overall influence and maturity. From established stars to one of the competition’s most exciting young talents, these five players caught the eye on Matchday 1.
Here is Footy-Africa’s ranking, from fifth to first.
5. Achraf Hakimi — Paris Saint-Germain (Morocco)
Achraf Hakimi was not among the goals as Paris Saint-Germain cruised to a 6-1 victory over Slovan Bratislava, but the Moroccan remained influential from right-back.
The Moroccan captain was heavily involved in his team’s attacking play during his 64 minutes on the pitch, consistently providing an outlet down the right and helping PSG maintain pressure on Slovan.
Hakimi also created promising opportunities for his teammates and attempted to get on the scoresheet himself.
It was not his most spectacular Champions League performance, but it was another display of the attacking quality and energy that have made him one of Africa’s leading players in Europe.
Key contribution: Attacking support, chance creation and control from the right flank.
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4. Bryan Mbeumo — Manchester United (Cameroon)
Bryan Mbeumo enjoyed a promising Champions League debut as Manchester United defeated Sabah 4-0.
The Cameroon international was involved in the build-up to United’s opening goal and later played an important role in the move that produced Benjamin Šeško’s goal.
Mbeumo’s movement, link-up play and ability to progress attacks made him a constant threat before he was substituted in the second half.
He may not have found the net himself, but his contribution to United’s attacking rhythm was significant.
Key contribution: Involvement in two attacking moves that led to goals, plus intelligent movement and link-up play.
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3. Ayyoub Bouaddi — Manchester City (Morocco)
At just 18, Ayyoub Bouaddi produced one of the most impressive individual displays of Matchday 1.
The Moroccan midfielder made his full Champions League debut away to Porto, one of European football’s most intimidating venues, yet looked remarkably comfortable as Manchester City secured a 2-0 victory.
Bouaddi’s composure in possession was particularly impressive. He completed 54 of his 55 passes, helping City establish control in midfield and navigate a difficult away fixture.
For a player making his first full Champions League appearance, the maturity of his performance was striking.
Bouaddi may not have registered a goal or assist, but his ability to dictate play and retain possession made him one of the most intriguing African performers of the opening matchday.
Key contribution: Midfield control, 98% passing accuracy, and composure in a difficult away environment.
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2. Nicolas Jackson — Aston Villa (Senegal)
Nicolas Jackson made an immediate impact for Aston Villa in their 3-2 victory over Club Brugge.
The Senegalese forward scored his first goal for the club shortly before half-time, restoring Villa’s two-goal advantage after Club Brugge had threatened to get back into the game.
Jackson was also involved in the build-up to Aston Villa’s second goal, showing that his influence extended beyond his finishing.
His goal ultimately proved crucial as Club Brugge mounted a late fightback. Villa held on to claim three valuable points away from home, with Jackson playing an important role in securing the victory.
Key contribution: One goal, involvement in another goal, and a decisive attacking presence in a difficult away win.
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1. Serhou Guirassy — Borussia Dortmund (Guinea)
There was little doubt about the No. 1 spot.
Serhou Guirassy delivered the most decisive performance among our five selections, scoring twice as Borussia Dortmund defeated Villarreal 3-2.
With Dortmund leading 1-0 before Villarreal equalised, the Guinea international restored his team’s advantage in the 80th minute.
Four minutes later, Guirassy stepped up from the penalty spot and converted to make it 3-1, giving Dortmund a crucial cushion.
Villarreal scored again late on, but Dortmund held on for victory.
Guirassy’s brace was therefore more than just an impressive statistical contribution. His goals came at critical moments and ultimately proved the difference between three points and a draw.
The striker was also recognised as the Player of the Match, underlining his importance to Dortmund’s victory.
For Footy-Africa, that makes Guirassy the standout African performer of Champions League Matchday 1.
Key contribution: Two goals, including the decisive penalty, and Player of the Match recognition.
