From Yekini to Okocha: Players with the most goals for Nigeria in AFCON History
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Nigeria's most prolific scorers at AFCON \\ Image credit: Imago

From Yekini to Okocha: Players with the most goals for Nigeria in AFCON History

Faruq Ibrahim 23:45 - 05.01.2024

A list of Nigeria's most prolific goal scorers in the African Cup of Nations.

Nigeria has seen some remarkable talent grace the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) over the years, with players leaving a significant mark in the tournament's history. Here's a look at some of the top scorers for Nigeria in AFCON history.

Rashidi Yekini – 13 Goals

Rashidi Yekini, Nigeria's all-time highest goalscorer, also leads the pack in AFCON history for the Super Eagles. With an impressive tally of 13 goals across four Nations Cup tournaments, Yekini's most notable performance was at Tunisia '94, where he scored five goals and played a key role in Nigeria winning the tournament. 

uper Eagles legend Rashidi Yekini, scored Nigeria's first goal at the Word cup| GOAL
Super Eagles legend Rashidi Yekini, scored Nigeria's first goal at the Word cup| GOAL

Austin Jay-Jay Okocha – 7 Goals

Austin "Jay-Jay" Okocha, known for his extraordinary skills and midfield dominance, scored seven goals in his AFCON career. His journey as a goal scorer started in Ghana/Nigeria 2000, and his performance peaked in Tunisia 2004, where he was named the Most Valuable Player.

Segun Odegbami – 6 Goals

Segun Odegbami, a winger with a knack for finding the back of the net, scored six goals in the AFCON. He made a significant impact in the 1978 tournament hosted by Ghana, helping Nigeria win a bronze medal, and later contributed to Nigeria's first-ever AFCON triumph in 1980.

Segun Odegbami is number 2 on the Top 10 Super Eagles all-time top scorers list
Segun Odegbami is number 2 on the Top 10 Super Eagles all-time top scorers list

Julius Aghahowa – 6 Goals

Julius Aghahowa, another name synonymous with Nigerian success in the AFCON, also scored six goals. His performance in AFCON 2000, particularly the brace against Senegal, remains memorable.

the Super Eagles put out a video featuring Aghahowa and Oliseh at AFCON 2000 that has gone viral on social media. - Imago
the Super Eagles put out a video featuring Aghahowa and Oliseh at AFCON 2000 that has gone viral on social media. - Imago

Odion Ighalo – 5 Goals

Odion Ighalo, who made his AFCON debut in 2019, quickly showed his prowess by scoring five goals in the tournament and claiming the top scorer award.

Muda Lawal – 5 Goals

Muda Lawal, with his consistent performances across five AFCON tournaments, also scored five goals. He was known for his versatility and played a crucial role in Nigeria's midfield.

Peter Osaze Odemwingie – 5 Goals

Peter Osaze Odemwingie, who chose to represent Nigeria internationally, scored five goals in the AFCON. He made a notable debut in Tunisia 2004, scoring a brace against South Africa.

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