Since making their FIFA World Cup debut in 1994, Nigeria’s Super Eagles have provided fans with unforgettable moments on football’s grandest stage.
From Rashidi Yekini’s iconic celebration in USA ’94 to Ahmed Musa’s record-breaking heroics, Nigerian players have consistently made their mark with crucial goals.
Over the years, these goals have carried the team to knockout stages, sparked thrilling comebacks, and cemented the nation’s reputation as one of Africa’s football powerhouses.
Below is a comprehensive list of all Nigerian players who have scored at the World Cup, sorted by tournament year.
1994 FIFA World Cup (USA)
Nigeria’s debut on the global stage was nothing short of remarkable, with several players finding the net:
– Rashidi Yekini – Scored Nigeria’s first-ever World Cup goal in a 3-0 win over Bulgaria. His celebration, clutching the net in tears, remains one of football’s most iconic moments.
– Daniel Amokachi – Netted in the same game against Bulgaria, showcasing his power and skill.
– Emmanuel Amunike – Scored twice, including a crucial goal against Italy in the Round of 16.
1998 FIFA World Cup (France)
Nigeria stunned the world by topping a group that included Spain and Bulgaria, thanks to these scorers:
– Mutiu Adepoju – Opened the scoring in Nigeria’s famous 3-2 comeback win against Spain.
– Tijani Babangida – Scored a stunning goal in the group stage against Denmark.
– Victor Ikpeba – Added his name to the scoresheet with a well-taken goal.
– Sunday Oliseh – Scored Nigeria’s most memorable goal of the tournament, a thunderous long-range strike to secure a 3-2 win over Spain.
– Wilson Oruma – Found the net to contribute to Nigeria’s attacking success.
2002 FIFA World Cup (South Korea & Japan)
Nigeria struggled in a tough group, but one player managed to make his mark:
– Julius Aghahowa – Scored Nigeria’s only goal of the tournament with a trademark header.
2010 FIFA World Cup (South Africa)
Nigeria returned to the World Cup after missing the 2006 edition, and two players found the back of the net:
– Kalu Uche – Scored two goals, keeping Nigeria’s hopes alive in the group stage.
– Yakubu Aiyegbeni – Scored a penalty but is also remembered for a shocking miss against South Korea.
2014 FIFA World Cup (Brazil)
This tournament saw Nigeria advance to the Round of 16, thanks to goals from:
– Ahmed Musa – Scored twice against Argentina, becoming the first Nigerian to score multiple goals in a single World Cup match.
– Peter Odemwingie – Scored the winner against Bosnia & Herzegovina, a vital goal that helped Nigeria progress.
2018 FIFA World Cup (Russia)
Ahmed Musa further etched his name in Nigerian football history:
– Ahmed Musa – Scored both goals in Nigeria’s 2-0 victory over Iceland, becoming the country’s all-time top World Cup scorer with four goals.
From Rashidi Yekini to Ahmed Musa, Nigerian players have delivered unforgettable World Cup moments over the years.
Their goals have fueled the Super Eagles’ success and given fans moments of joy and pride.
As Nigeria looks ahead to future tournaments, the hope remains that new heroes will emerge to continue this legacy.
