Nigerians and players of Nigerian descent were among the standout figures as the Seattle Seahawks claimed Super Bowl glory with a commanding 29-13 win over the New England Patriots.

American football’s biggest night showcased the growing influence of athletes with Nigerian roots, many of whom played decisive roles in a dramatic and memorable match.

Seattle linebacker Uchenna Nwosu drew widespread praise for his impact, producing a game-changing defensive play that culminated in a touchdown.

He was joined by fellow Seahawks defenders Boye Mafe and Nick Emmanwori, both of whom delivered composed and physical performances in a unit that suffocated the Patriots’ attack.

On the offensive line, Olusegun “Olu” Oluwatimi anchored Seattle’s protection, helping to steady the team throughout the game.

On the Patriots’ side, Michael Onwenu was described as instrumental to his team’s run to the final, producing a solid display despite the disappointment of falling short on the biggest stage.

According to AFP, the Seahawks sealed their second Lombardi Trophy behind an assured display from quarterback Sam Darnold, who completed a touchdown pass and threw for around 200 yards.

Darnold, once labelled a quarterback who struggled under pressure, delivered a composed performance that capped a remarkable career revival.

Seattle’s triumph was underpinned by a dominant defensive showing and an outstanding night from kicker Jason Myers, whose five field goals set a new Super Bowl record.

It was a difficult evening for Patriots quarterback Drake Maye, who was sacked six times and threw two interceptions, ending his bid to become the youngest starting quarterback to win a Super Bowl at the age of 23.

The game began cautiously, with neither team finding the end zone across the opening three quarters. The Seahawks relied heavily on Myers’ accuracy and the relentless running of Kenneth Walker, who racked up 135 rushing yards and was later named the game’s Most Valuable Player.

The final quarter provided the fireworks. Darnold connected with tight end AJ Barner on a 16-yard touchdown pass, breaking the deadlock.

A brief interruption involving a pitch invader appeared to lift the Patriots, and Maye responded with a stunning 35-yard touchdown pass to Mack Hollins, cutting the deficit to 19-7.

Any hopes of a comeback were quickly extinguished. Maye was strip-sacked soon after, allowing Nwosu to sprint into the end zone for a defensive touchdown. Rhamondre Stevenson added a late consolation score for New England, but the outcome was already beyond doubt.

The win also carried a sense of redemption for Seattle, which avenged its previous Super Bowl defeat to the Patriots in 2015.

The New England, once nicknamed the “Evil Empire” during their dominant era, it was a sobering end to a season that had promised resurgence under coach of the year Mike Vrabel. The Patriots missed the chance to claim a record seventh Super Bowl title and continue their post-Tom Brady revival.