Alhassan Yusuf Hits MLS Team Of The Week As Ekpo Demands NPFL Players For Unity Cup

According to Ireporter Online, Nigeria international Alhassan Yusuf has earned a place in the Major League Soccer Team of the Week following his match-winning performance for New England Revolution in their narrow 1-0 victory over D.C. United at Gillette Stadium.

The 25-year-old midfielder netted the decisive goal, continuing his strong start to the season and bringing his tally to two goals in six league appearances. Yusuf, who also recorded two goals and two assists last season under head coach Marko Mitrović, has taken on a more advanced role this campaign, becoming a key attacking outlet for the club.

His impressive form has contributed to New England Revolution’s steady start, with the team currently sitting eighth in the Eastern Conference on nine points from six matches. They are set to face Columbus in a US Open Cup fixture on Wednesday as Yusuf looks to maintain his momentum.

In a related development, former Nigeria international Friday Ekpo has urged Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle to consider inviting players from the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) for the upcoming 2026 Unity Cup scheduled to hold in London from May 26 to 30.

The four-nation tournament, which will feature Nigeria, Jamaica, Zimbabwe, and India at The Valley, home of Charlton Athletic, is designed to celebrate Afrocentric and diaspora football connections. Nigeria will be defending the title they previously won.

Ekpo stressed the importance of giving domestic league players a chance to prove their quality at the international level, arguing that the NPFL remains rich in talent capable of strengthening the national team.