Victor Osimhen netted his 23rd goal for the Super Eagles in the AFCON qualification match against Benin Republic on Thursday, November 14. This achievement places him alongside the legendary Segun Odegbami as Nigeria’s joint second-all-time top scorer.
Throughout its illustrious history, Nigeria has been home to several football superstars. Here are the top 10 all-time highest goal scorers for the Super Eagles:
10. Ahmed Musa (16 goals)
Ahmed Musa, Nigeria’s most capped player with 107 appearances since his 2010 debut against Madagascar, has scored 16 goals. Notably, he netted two stunning goals against Argentina during the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
9. Odion Ighalo (16 goals)
Former Manchester United forward Odion Ighalo shares the 16-goal tally with Musa. Representing the Super Eagles from 2015 to 2022, Ighalo became a fan favorite with his clinical finishing and energetic play.
8. Samson Siasia (16 goals)
Widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s best coaches, Samson Siasia also had a stellar playing career. Between 1984 and 1999, he scored 16 goals, contributing to Nigeria’s bronze medal in the 1992 AFCON and their historic AFCON victory in 1994.
7. Sunday Oyarekhua (17 goals)
With 17 goals in 28 appearances between 1976, Sunday Oyarekhua is 7th on the list. He shone brightly in the 1973 All-Africa Games, finishing as Nigeria’s top scorer in the tournament-winning squad.
6. Obafemi Martins (18 goals)
Known as “Obagoal,” Obafemi Martins scored 18 goals in 48 appearances. Renowned for his speed, power, and acrobatic celebrations, the former Inter Milan forward left a lasting legacy as one of Nigeria’s finest strikers.
5. Ikechukwu Uche (19 goals)
Ikechukwu Uche, with 19 goals in 46 matches, played a vital role in Nigeria’s 2013 AFCON triumph. His knack for scoring and signature celebratory flips endeared him to fans.
4. Yakubu Aiyegbeni (21 goals)
Despite being remembered for a miss in the 2010 FIFA World Cup, Yakubu’s legacy is cemented with 21 goals in 57 matches. His strength and sharp eye for goal made him a reliable forward for the Super Eagles.
3. Victor Osimhen (23 goals)
With his latest goal against Benin, Victor Osimhen has scored 23 goals in 36 appearances. Renowned for his determination and tenacity, the Napoli star is regarded as the leader of Nigeria’s new footballing generation. With AFCON 2025 qualification secured, he aims to win his first senior trophy with the national team.
2. Segun Odegbami (23 goals)
Nicknamed “Mathematical,” Segun Odegbami dazzled during his career with 23 goals in 46 appearances (1976–1982). Known for his precision and technical skills, he remains one of Nigeria’s football legends.
1. Rashidi Yekini (37 goals)
Rashidi Yekini, Nigeria’s greatest-ever striker, scored 37 goals in 62 matches. His iconic celebration after scoring Nigeria’s first-ever World Cup goal in 1994—crying and clutching the net—symbolizes his enduring legacy as a national hero.
These players represent the pride and excellence of Nigerian football, with Victor Osimhen poised to continue climbing the ranks in the years ahead.
