Super Eagles of Nigeria have had some of the best footballers in African history. While every list is subjective, we have come up with a solid XI.
Super Eagles Greatest XI
Vincent Enyeama (Goalkeeper): Enyeama is Nigeria’s most capped goalkeeper and played a crucial role in the team’s success during the mid-2000s and early 2010s. He was known for his shot-stopping abilities and leadership. With a particular highlight coming against Argentina at the 2014 World Cup.
Stephen Keshi (Defender): Keshi was not only a legendary defender but also served as a successful coach for the national team. He captained Nigeria to its first-ever Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title in 1994.
Taribo West (Defender): A tough and versatile defender, Taribo West was a key figure in the Nigerian defense during the late 1990s. He played in two World Cups and contributed to Nigeria’s success in the 2000 AFCON.
Joseph Yobo (Defender): Yobo is Nigeria’s most capped outfield player and had a long and successful international career. He played in multiple AFCON tournaments and FIFA World Cups, providing leadership in the defense.
Celestine Babayaro (Defender): Babayaro was an attack-minded left-back who played a vital role in the success of the Super Eagles in the late 1990s. He had a successful club career as well, playing for Chelsea in the English Premier League.
Jay-Jay Okocha (Midfielder): Known for his creativity, and flair, Okocha is one of the greatest Nigerian midfielders of all time. He played in three World Cups and was a key figure in the team during the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Sunday Oliseh (Midfielder): Oliseh was a central midfielder known for his passing ability and leadership on the field. He scored one of the most memorable goals in Nigerian football history during the 1998 World Cup against Spain.
John Mikel Obi (Midfielder): Mikel played a crucial role in winning the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2013. Nigeria emerged victorious in the tournament held in South Africa, and Mikel’s performances in midfield were instrumental. Additionally, he represented Nigeria in multiple FIFA World Cups and other AFCON tournaments. The ex-Chelsea man contributed significantly to the team’s performances on the global stage.
Super Eagles Best forwards
Nwankwo Kanu (Forward): Kanu is one of Nigeria’s most celebrated forwards. He won numerous individual awards, including the African Footballer of the Year on two occasions. Kanu also achieved success at the club level with teams like Ajax and Arsenal. He played a crucial role in Nigeria’s gold medal at the 1996 Olympics.
Rashidi Yekini (Forward): Yekini is Nigeria’s all-time leading goal scorer and was a prominent figure in Nigerian football during the late 1980s and early 1990s. He scored Nigeria’s first-ever goal in the FIFA World Cup in 1994 and remains an inspiration to many.
Victor Osimhen (Forward): The Napoli man has exploded into one of the world’s most feared strikers. He delivers for Nigeria as well.
The 25-year-old has scored 20 goals in just 27 games for the Super Eagles. This puts him 4th in the top 10 scorers for Nigeria, and the quickest to 20 goals.
Great list but I don’t think Osimhen makes it yet..