Ranking the Top 10 Goalscorers in Super Eagles History
Nigerian football has a rich and storied history, defined by its electrifying forwards and unforgettable goals. From the pioneers who first put Nigeria on the map to the modern superstars dazzling on the world stage, the nation has consistently produced elite goalscorers. These players didn't just wear the green and white; they etched their names into the annals of African football history.
This report chronicles the top 10 greatest goalscorers to ever represent the Super Eagles.
1. Rashidi Yekini (37 Goals)
At the pinnacle of the list stands the immortal Rashidi Yekini, Nigeria's all-time leading goalscorer. With an incredible 37 goals in just 62 appearances between 1984 and 1998, his impact is unmatched. Yekini’s commanding presence on the field helped Nigeria win its second Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title in 1994, where he also finished as the tournament's top scorer. However, his most iconic moment remains his unforgettable, net-clutching celebration after scoring Nigeria's first-ever World Cup goal in 1994—an image that endures as a symbol of national pride.
2. Victor Osimhen (26 Goals)
The modern spearhead of the attack, Victor Osimhen, is renowned for his relentless energy and lethal finishing. The Napoli superstar has already amassed 26 goals in only 40 games, a tally he is actively adding to. Leading a new generation of attackers, Osimhen has surpassed legends like Segun Odegbami on the scoring chart and continues to be a formidable force for defences across Europe and Africa.
3. Segun Odegbami (23 Goals)
The legendary Segun Odegbami, nicknamed "The Mathematician" for his precision and intelligent play, scored 23 goals in 47 matches. His signature dribbles and deadly accuracy were instrumental in Nigeria's historic 1980 Africa Cup of Nations victory on home soil. During his era, he was the face of Nigerian football and a true pioneer for future generations.
4. Yakubu Aiyegbeni (21 Goals)
A consistent and powerful presence up front, Yakubu Aiyegbeni, popularly known as "The Yak," found the net 21 times in 57 appearances. His formidable club career included successful stints with top Premier League teams like Everton, Middlesbrough, and Portsmouth. Despite an infamous miss at the 2010 World Cup, his overall contribution and goalscoring prowess for Nigeria remain highly respected.
5. Ikechukwu Uche (19 Goals)
A quick-footed striker who built a formidable reputation in Spain, Ikechukwu Uche earned 46 caps and scored 19 international goals. He was a reliable figure in Nigeria's attack throughout the late 2000s and early 2010s, proving particularly deadly during qualification campaigns for both the AFCON and the World Cup.
6. Obafemi Martins (18 Goals)
Known for his blistering pace and acrobatic goal celebrations, Obafemi Martins—also known as "Obagoal"—scored 18 goals in 48 appearances. Bursting onto the international scene at just 19, he brought a unique flair to the Super Eagles and enjoyed a dynamic career with clubs like Inter Milan, Newcastle United, and the Seattle Sounders.
7. Sunday Oyarekhua (17 Goals)
A foundational figure in Nigerian football history, Sunday Oyarekhua boasted an impressive record of 17 goals in just 28 appearances between 1971 and 1976. He was a standout performer at the 1973 All-Africa Games, where Nigeria won gold and he finished as the tournament's top scorer.
8. Samson Siasia (16 Goals)
More than just a striker, Samson Siasia was a visionary on the pitch, scoring 16 goals in 51 games during Nigeria's "golden era." One of his most famous moments was a stunning goal against Argentina in the 1994 World Cup. He was a key member of the squads that won bronze at the 1992 AFCON and gold in 1994, later managing the national team at various levels.
9. Odion Ighalo (16 Goals)
Odion Ighalo made a significant impact on the national team, scoring 16 goals. He was Nigeria's leading man during the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, where his five goals earned him the tournament's Golden Boot. His strength, intelligent positioning, and clinical finishing made him a nightmare for defenders from 2015 to 2022.
10. Ahmed Musa (16 Goals)
Rounding out the list is Ahmed Musa, Nigeria's most-capped player with over 107 appearances. While not the most prolific scorer, Musa delivered some of Nigeria's most memorable World Cup moments. His two memorable braces—one against Argentina in 2014 and a stunning pair of goals against Iceland in 2018—highlight his importance in crucial matches.
Beyond the Top 10
While this list focuses on sheer numbers, the legacy of Nigerian football was also built by players whose contributions went beyond their goal tallies. Icons like Daniel Amokachi, Emmanuel Emenike, and Nwankwo Kanu provided crucial goals, assists, and leadership that were vital to the Super Eagles' success over the years.
