African footballers once again made headlines across Europe’s major leagues over the weekend, with Cameroon international Bryan Mbeumo leading the way after scoring for Manchester United in their dramatic 2–2 draw with Everton on Sunday, September 6.
Mbeumo produced an impressive individual effort shortly after half-time. The 27-year-old received the ball on the right, moved inside and fired a powerful left-footed shot into the far corner beyond Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford.
The goal was Mbeumo’s second in three Premier League matches this season, following his goal in Manchester United’s 5–2 victory over Ipswich Town.
United twice surrender the lead
Despite Mbeumo’s contribution, Manchester United were unable to secure all three points.
Mbeumo’s 46th-minute goal gave United the advantage before Everton’s Tyrique George equalised in the 83rd minute.
United appeared to have won the match when Benjamin Sesko headed them back in front in the 88th minute. However, Everton substitute Ainsley Maitland-Niles produced a stunning long-range strike in the sixth minute of stoppage time to make it 2–2.
The result left Everton unbeaten after three league matches, while Manchester United had four points from their opening three games.
More African players impress
Mbeumo was not the only African player to attract attention.
In Spain, Ivorian winger Nicolas Pépé scored for Villarreal in their 3–2 defeat against Deportivo La Coruña. It was Pépé’s second goal of the season after he curled the ball into the net following a mistake by the Deportivo goalkeeper.
The performances underline the growing influence of African players in Europe’s biggest domestic competitions, with several internationals continuing to play important roles for their clubs at the beginning of the 2026/27 season.
For Mbeumo in particular, his strong start will be encouraging as he continues to establish himself as an important part of Manchester United’s attack.
