UEFA Champions League 2023/2024 season will start next month, on September 19, 2023, and Nigerian players will have a strong presence on the biggest stage in Europe.
They’ll participate in UEFA tournaments like the Conference League, Europa League, and Champions League. According to reports, Nigeria has the highest number of football players playing in Europe compared to other countries globally.
While many of them have notched up remarkable achievements, only a handful have secured major continental trophies such as the Champions League and the UEFA Cup (now known as the Europa League).
These players have represented prominent European clubs known for their dominance in elite competitions. They’ve also showcased their skills in the national team, contributing to Nigeria’s prowess on the global stage.
Let’s take a look at a few of these Nigerian footballers and their achievements:
Finidi George (UEFA Champions League winner)
Former Calabar Rovers winger Finidi George stands out as an early Nigerian star in football. He was a part of the historic Ajax Amsterdam team that clinched the Champions League in 1995. They triumphed over AC Milan in a memorable final, with Patrick Kluivert’s goal sealing a 1-0 victory.
Kanu Nwankwo (UEFA Champions League winner)
Much like his compatriot Finidi, Kanu Nwankwo was an integral part of the successful Ajax squad that secured the Champions League title in the 1994–95 season.
He was known for his super-sub role and came close to scoring during the final match. Kanu later continued his career in England, eventually retiring after the FIFA World Cup in 2010.
Taribo West (UEFA Cup winner)
Taribo West is revered as one of Nigeria’s best centre-backs. His exceptional performance during the 1997/98 season with Inter Milan was pivotal in their UEFA Cup victory.
Playing a crucial role in defense, he helped Inter Milan claim a 3-0 victory over Lazio in the UEFA Cup final.
Chidi Odiah (UEFA Cup winner)
Chidi Odiah, initially a midfielder, made a significant impact as a full-wing-back for Russian side CSKA Moscow during their UEFA Cup victory in 2005.
His versatility in defending, attacking, and using both feet played a key role in CSKA Moscow’s 3-1 win over Sporting Lisbon of Portugal in the final.
John Mikel Obi (UEFA Champions League and Europa League winner)
Former Chelsea legend John Mikel Obi stands out as one of Nigeria’s most accomplished footballers. He secured the UEFA Champions League title during the 2011/2012 season and followed it up with a victory in the UEFA Europa League in the 2012/2013 season. These achievements have solidified his legacy in African football.
Victor Moses (UEFA Europa League winner)
Former Super Eagles winger Victor Moses was not a regular player for Chelsea when they swept aside Europe in two seasons. But he would feature in the Blues’victory against Benfica in 2013.
The midfielder, who made his Super Eagles bow in 2012, signed for Chelsea in 2012 and has gone to represent Liverpool, Stoke City, West Ham, Fenerbahce, and now Inter Milan.
Nigerian footballers have made their mark on the European stage, showcasing their skills and contributing to both club and national team successes. we have new names rising up from Nigeria, we expect more names to be added.
