Over the years, Nigerian footballers have left a lasting mark on the UEFA Champions League, Europe’s most prestigious club competition.
From powerful strikers to clinical finishers, these players have showcased their goal-scoring prowess on football’s grandest stage.
In this article, we highlight the top five Nigerian players with the most goals in Champions League history, celebrating their contributions to the beautiful game.
As of February 2025, here are the top five Nigerian goal scorers in the history of the competition:
1. Obafemi Martins – 10 Goals
Obafemi Martins, affectionately known as “Oba Goal,” leads the chart with 10 goals in the UEFA Champions League. During his tenure with Inter Milan, he consistently found the back of the net, earning a reputation for his agility and finishing prowess.
2. Victor Osimhen – 9 Goals
Victor Osimhen has rapidly ascended the ranks with 9 Champions League goals. The prolific striker netted two goals with French side LOSC Lille before transferring to Napoli, where he added seven more to his tally.
3. Julius Aghahowa – 7 Goals
Julius Aghahowa made his mark with 7 goals in the competition, all scored during his time at Shakhtar Donetsk. Known for his acrobatic goal celebrations, Aghahowa was a key figure in Shakhtar’s European campaigns.
4. Emmanuel Emenike – 7 Goals
Emmanuel Emenike matched Aghahowa’s feat with 7 Champions League goals. His contributions came while playing for Spartak Moscow, Fenerbahçe, and Olympiacos, where his strength and striking ability were on full display.
5. Ayegbeni Yakubu – 7 Goals
Ayegbeni Yakubu also boasts 7 goals in the Champions League, all scored during his spell with Maccabi Haifa. His memorable performances in the 2002–03 season included a hat-trick against Olympiacos, underscoring his knack for goal-scoring on big occasions.
These players have not only etched their names in Nigerian football history but have also significantly impacted the UEFA Champions League with their goal-scoring exploits.
