Okocha Makes the Cut As Osimhen Snubs Kanu in Super Eagles Ultimate Dream Team

Okocha Makes the Cut As Osimhen Snubs Kanu in Super Eagles Ultimate Dream Team

  • Victor Osimhen has named his ultimate Super Eagles 5-a-side team, leaving out Nigeria legend Nwankwo Kanu
  • Austin Jay-Jay Okocha, Rashidi Yekini, and Vincent Enyeama make the list of Nigerian legends in Osimhen’s list
  • Okocha and Yekini were part of Nigeria’s AFCON winning squad in 1994 while Enyeama won the trophy in 2013

Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen has sparked debate among football fans after disclosing his ultimate Super Eagles 5-A-side team, surprisingly leaving out Arsenal legend Nwankwo Kanu.

In a recent video shared on the Super Eagles’ social media platform, Osimhen, currently on loan at Galatasaray from Napoli, named his preferred squad, including some of Nigeria’s most iconic football figures.

Victor Osimhen, Nigeria, Super Eagles
Victor Osimhen is Nigeria's joint-second all-time leading scorer with 23 goals. Photo by NurPhoto
Source: Getty Images

Osimhen recently etched his name into Nigerian football history by becoming the Super Eagles' joint-second all-time leading scorer, equalling Segun Odegbami's record.

The 26-year-old Galatasaray forward reached the milestone in November 2024, when he scored his 23rd goal for Nigeria in a critical 1-1 draw against Benin Republic in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.

Read also

Super Eagles suffer major goalkeeping crisis ahead of crucial World Cup qualifiers

Osimhen stirred a bit of controversy after revealing his ultimate 5-a-side with Kanu arguably the biggest name left out of the Nigeria forward’s pick.

Osimhen’s ultimate Super Eagles 5-A-Side selection

Vincent Enyeama – One of Nigeria’s greatest goalkeepers, known for his shot-stopping abilities and leadership on the pitch.

Joseph Yobo & Kenneth Omeruo – A solid defensive duo, with Yobo’s experience and Omeruo’s resilience making them formidable at the back.

Jay-Jay Okocha – A creative midfield maestro, known for his dribbling skills and flair, adding playmaking brilliance to the team.

Rashidi Yekini – The late Nigerian legend and all-time top scorer for the Super Eagles, providing a lethal goal-scoring presence up front.

Osimhen’s selections reflect a mix of defensive solidity, attacking prowess, and creative midfield play, showing his deep appreciation for Nigerian football history.

Why Kanu was left out

Kanu, one of Nigeria’s most celebrated footballers, is best known for his time at Arsenal, Ajax, and his pivotal role in Nigeria’s 1996 Olympic gold medal win.

Read also

Lookman makes history, joins Osimhen and Martins in prestigious Nigerian goal record

Nwankwo Kanu, Nigeria, Super Eagles
Nwankwo Kanu never won the AFCON, and most surprisingly, he did not score a goal at the tournament in 27 matches. Photo by Quinn Rooney
Source: Getty Images

Despite his legendary status, Osimhen did not include the former Arsenal forward in his selection, sparking reactions from fans.

While Osimhen did not provide a direct reason for omitting Kanu, his choices suggest a preference for players with different skill sets.

Yekini’s clinical finishing and Okocha’s playmaking abilities may have edged Kanu out of the lineup.

Additionally, Osimhen’s generation might have stronger emotional ties to players they watched growing up, influencing his decision.

Man United drop plans to sign Osimhen

Earlier, Legit.ng reported that Manchester United have reportedly stepped away from their pursuit of Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen, despite his impressive goal-scoring form on loan at Galatasaray.

The 26-year-old forward has been linked with a move to Old Trafford for several seasons, but it now appears the Red Devils are exploring alternative options.

Man United have struggled for goals this campaign, ranking among the bottom half of the Premier League’s scoring charts following the failures of their attackers this campaign. However, despite the need for a clinical finisher at Old Trafford, the club’s recruitment team is reportedly not prioritising Osimhen as a target.

PAY ATTENTION: Сheck out news that is picked exactly for YOU ➡️ find the “Recommended for you” block on the home page and enjoy!

Source: Legit.ng

Authors:
Chukwu Ikechukwu avatar

Chukwu Ikechukwu (Sports Editor) Chukwu Ikechukwu Godwin is a seasoned sports journalist with over a decade of experience across radio, TV, and online media. His career has seen him contribute his expertise to prominent media outlets such as Today FM, Wish FM, Silverbird Communications, and Sports Brief. Chukwu earned his Bachelor's degree in Agriculture from the University of Port Harcourt in 2016. Email: Chukwu.ikechukwu@corp.legit.ng