5 Nigerian Footballers with the Most International Winnings

Over the years, Nigerian footballers have carried the nation’s pride across the globe on the pitches of Europe, in stadiums packed with fans waving different flags, they’ve lifted trophies and made history. 

These players aren’t just stars at home, they’re legends in the football world, known for their grit, talent, and passion.

Here are some of the most decorated Nigerian players, based on the trophies they’ve won both for club and country.

Kanu Nwankwo

When you talk about Nigerian football royalty, Kanu Nwankwo’s name is never left out. Nicknamed “Papilo,” Kanu had a career that turned heads around the world.

He’s the only Nigerian to win the CAF Player of the Year award twice (1996 and 1999), and one of the rare African players to boast a Champions League, UEFA Super Cup, and Olympic gold medal in his trophy cabinet.

From Ajax to Inter Milan to Arsenal, where he was part of the iconic “Invincibles”, Kanu made an impact and also wrapped up his club journey with an FA Cup win at Portsmouth. Simply put, Kanu is a legend whose medals speak for themselves.

John Obi Mikel

From Jos to Stamford Bridge, Mikel Obi grew into one of Nigeria’s most accomplished footballers. The former Chelsea midfielder enjoyed a trophy-filled career, especially during his decade at the London club.

He won two Premier League titles, four FA Cups, and even lifted the Champions League in 2012, followed by the Europa League a year later.

On the international stage, Mikel was just as crucial, leading Nigeria to AFCON glory in 2013 and helping the Olympic team secure bronze in Rio 2016. Calm, classy, and consistent, Mikel was always the man for big occasions.

Finidi George

Elegant on the ball and deadly from the right wing, Finidi George was one of the Super Eagles’ most creative players of the 90s.

His club career soared at Ajax, where he helped build one of Europe’s most feared teams. He won the Champions League in 1995, alongside multiple Dutch Eredivisie titles, Super Cups, and an Intercontinental Cup.

For Nigeria, Finidi was part of the team that conquered Africa in 1994, adding continental success to his already glittering résumé.

Daniel Amokachi

Known as “The Bull,” Daniel Amokachi played with power, pace, and purpose. His career spanned Belgium, England, and Turkey, and at each stop, he left with silverware.

Amokachi won league titles and cups in Belgium, the FA Cup with Everton, and added more honors at Beşiktaş in Turkey. 

On the international scene, he helped Nigeria win AFCON in 1994 and was part of the iconic team that secured Olympic gold in Atlanta 1996.

Whether bulldozing through defenders or celebrating with his famous dance, Amokachi brought joy to the game.

Sunday Oliseh

Commanding and technically sharp, Sunday Oliseh was the heartbeat of Nigeria’s midfield for years. A leader on and off the pitch, Oliseh had stints in Belgium, the Netherlands, Italy, and Germany, and collected silverware along the way.

He remains the only Nigerian player to win the German Bundesliga, with Borussia Dortmund in 2002. 

He also lifted the Dutch league and cup double with Ajax. His international record? Just as golden, AFCON 1994 and an Olympic gold medal in 1996. Oliseh was more than a defensive midfielder, he was a football general.