by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 17, 2026 | AFCON, Africa, Nigeria, Soccer
Nigeria’s Super Eagles have always been celebrated for their attacking brilliance, but no role captures the imagination quite like the iconic Number 9. From explosive finishers to modern pressing machines, the centre-forward position has evolved — yet remains central to Nigeria’s AFCON story in the 21st century.
Interestingly, despite Nigeria scoring 91 AFCON goals since 2000, recognised strikers account for just over 35 percent of that tally. In fact, during the 2004 edition, no traditional striker even found the net — with midfield maestro Austin Okocha finishing as joint top scorer.
Here’s a re-ranked look at the top Super Eagles Number 9s in AFCON tournaments since 2000.
7. Victor Ikpeba – The Transitional Leader
Though his prime years came before the millennium, Ikpeba remained influential during Nigeria’s run to the AFCON 2000 final.
Operating more as a support striker than a traditional No. 9, he scored twice in a thrilling 4-2 group-stage win over Tunisia.
By then, he was already an established African great — a former African Footballer of the Year and AFCON champion.
Ikpeba contributed roughly 16 percent of Nigeria’s goals in 2000, symbolising a transitional era where Nigeria’s attack was fluid and shared.
6. Obafemi Martins – The Explosive Catalyst
Nicknamed “Oba Goal,” Martins brought raw pace and unpredictability to Nigeria’s AFCON campaigns.
He scored three AFCON goals across 2006 and 2010, including a devastating brace against Senegal in Egypt 2006. All his goals came in group stages, yet his impact stretched beyond numbers.
At club level, Martins rose to prominence with Inter Milan and later starred in England and the MLS. Injuries sometimes disrupted his international rhythm, but his explosiveness was undeniable.
5. Julius Aghahowa – The Acrobatic Showman
Few strikers ignited nostalgia like Aghahowa.
Across AFCON 2000 and 2002, he scored six goals — three in each edition — earning the Golden Boot in 2002 after netting 60 percent of Nigeria’s goals.
Three of his goals came against Senegal, and his flips after scoring became iconic.
His explosive pace and fearless finishing made him one of Nigeria’s most exciting early-2000s forwards.
4. Yakubu Aiyegbeni – The Penalty-Box Specialist
Yakubu represented consistency and efficiency.
He scored four AFCON goals across three editions (2002–2010). His standout tournament came in 2008, where he scored two of Nigeria’s three goals — a massive 66 percent contribution.
Internationally, he finished with 21 goals in 58 appearances, while enjoying strong club spells at Portsmouth, Everton, and Blackburn. Often under-celebrated, Yakubu was a reliable presence in big tournaments.
3. Emmanuel Emenike – The Champion’s Spearhead
When Nigeria lifted AFCON 2013, Emenike was central to that triumph.
He scored four goals — 36 percent of Nigeria’s total — including decisive strikes against Burkina Faso, Zambia, and Côte d’Ivoire.
His blend of power, pace, and long-range shooting made him the focal point of Stephen Keshi’s attacking structure.
Though he only scored in one edition, his impact was title-defining.
2. Odion Ighalo – The Golden Boot Revivalist
AFCON 2019 belonged to Ighalo.
He scored five goals, contributing 55 percent of Nigeria’s nine goals and winning the Golden Boot. His brace against Cameroon in the Round of 16 and winner against Burundi remain tournament highlights.
Like Emenike, he shone brightly in a single edition — but what a performance it was.
1. Victor Osimhen – The Modern Machine
Victor Osimhen represents the evolution of Nigeria’s Number 9.
At AFCON 2023, he scored once as Nigeria reached the final. In 2025, he netted three goals, including a brace against Mozambique. But Osimhen’s value extends beyond goals — his pressing, aerial dominance, relentless work rate, and defensive occupation create space for teammates.
At club level, he won the Serie A Golden Boot and ended Napoli’s 33-year title drought before earning African Footballer of the Year honours in 2023 — the first Nigerian winner since 1999.
In an era rich with attacking options, Osimhen stands as the undisputed spearhead of Nigeria’s modern attack — chasing Rasheed Yekini’s all-time record and carrying the hopes of a new generation.
Final Word
From Ikpeba’s intelligence to Aghahowa’s acrobatics, from Emenike’s power to Ighalo’s revival, and now Osimhen’s all-round dominance — the Super Eagles’ Number 9 shirt has carried different identities across AFCON tournaments.
Yet one truth remains: Nigeria may not always be striker-dependent, but when the Number 9 rises, the nation believes.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 13, 2026 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Soccer
President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Patrice Motsepe, has reaffirmed that the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) will proceed as planned, dismissing speculation surrounding the tournament’s hosting arrangements.
Recent reports suggested that Morocco could withdraw from hosting duties following developments after the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. This sparked discussions about a possible replacement host, with South Africa reportedly expressing interest in stepping in should the need arise.
However, speaking at a CAF Executive Council press conference, Motsepe stressed that there are ongoing discussions but assured that the competition remains firmly on track.
“There are discussions taking place, and there are a lot of competitions. Morocco came to assist because there were many countries that wanted to host it, but because we didn’t have time, our standards were very high,” Motsepe explained.
He added that several nations remain interested in hosting the tournament, though some have requested a change in the scheduled dates — a move CAF is unwilling to consider.
“We can’t change the date because it’s one of those qualifiers for the Women’s World Cup,” he stated. “The WAFCON continues, it’s going to be successful, and we will make sure it takes place within the window.”
The 2026 WAFCON is slated to run from March 17 to April 3. Ghana’s Black Queens will be aiming to end their decade-long wait for a maiden continental title when the tournament kicks off.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 13, 2026 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Soccer
President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Patrice Motsepe, has reaffirmed that the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) will proceed as planned, dismissing speculation surrounding the tournament’s hosting arrangements.
Recent reports suggested that Morocco could withdraw from hosting duties following developments after the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. This sparked discussions about a possible replacement host, with South Africa reportedly expressing interest in stepping in should the need arise.
However, speaking at a CAF Executive Council press conference, Motsepe stressed that there are ongoing discussions but assured that the competition remains firmly on track.
“There are discussions taking place, and there are a lot of competitions. Morocco came to assist because there were many countries that wanted to host it, but because we didn’t have time, our standards were very high,” Motsepe explained.
He added that several nations remain interested in hosting the tournament, though some have requested a change in the scheduled dates — a move CAF is unwilling to consider.
“We can’t change the date because it’s one of those qualifiers for the Women’s World Cup,” he stated. “The WAFCON continues, it’s going to be successful, and we will make sure it takes place within the window.”
The 2026 WAFCON is slated to run from March 17 to April 3. Ghana’s Black Queens will be aiming to end their decade-long wait for a maiden continental title when the tournament kicks off.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 13, 2026 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
Ghana’s Black Princesses have safely arrived in Nelspruit ahead of their crucial return leg clash against South Africa in the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup qualifiers.
The team left Accra on Tuesday evening aboard South African Airways and touched down at OR Tambo International Airport before continuing their journey to Nelspruit Mbombela, where they arrived around midday on Wednesday. Officials from Ghana’s Mission in South Africa warmly received the delegation upon arrival in Johannesburg prior to their onward trip.
The decisive encounter comes after a 2-2 draw in the first leg at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday. With a place in the fourth and final round of the qualifiers at stake, the Black Princesses know they must produce a strong performance away from home to keep their World Cup dream alive.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 12, 2026 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Atlético Madrid are reportedly planning a €24 million summer bid for Leicester City winger Abdul Fatawu Issahaku as they look to strengthen their squad ahead of next season.
The 21-year-old Ghana international has been one of the standout performers in the English Championship, dazzling with his blistering pace, direct running, and fearless attacking approach. His ability to unsettle defenders and create decisive moments has made him a key figure for Leicester City this campaign.
Fatawu’s impressive displays have not gone unnoticed, with several European clubs monitoring his progress. However, Atlético Madrid are said to be leading the charge, viewing the winger as a player capable of making an immediate impact in La Liga rather than a long-term development project.
Diego Simeone is reportedly keen on Fatawu’s profile, believing his intensity, vertical style, and attacking aggression align perfectly with Atlético’s tactical philosophy. The proposed €24 million fee is considered a reasonable investment for a young talent with significant upside and growing international pedigree.
The Black Stars winger has already proven his quality on the international stage and previously earned recognition at youth level, including MVP honors and top scorer accolades in major tournaments.
A move to Atlético Madrid would mark a significant step up in Fatawu’s career, offering him the opportunity to compete at the highest level in Spanish football.
However, Leicester City may be hesitant to part with one of their most exciting assets, setting the stage for what could be a closely watched transfer saga in the coming months.
