Super Eagles legend Jay Jay Okocha beats Nwankwo Kanu to emerge 'favourite Nigerian player' of all-time

Super Eagles legends Jay Jay Okocha and Kanu Nwankwo named as Nigerian favourites.

Super Eagles legend Jay Jay Okocha beats Nwankwo Kanu to emerge 'favourite Nigerian player' of all-time

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 16:48 - 30.10.2024

Nigerians took to FIFA's social media platform to name Austin Jay Jay Okocha as their favourite Nigerian player of all time.

Nigerians have crowned Austin "Jay Jay" Okocha as their favourite Nigerian player of all time, surpassing fellow football legend Nwankwo Kanu in a recent poll conducted by FIFA on their social media platform.

The world football governing body sparked the conversation by asking fans to name their all-time favourite Nigerian player, and the response quickly went viral, with Okocha receiving overwhelming support from fans.

Despite being mocked after Ademola Lookman's Ballon d'Or finish, in the comments section, many fans expressed their admiration for Okocha, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest African players ever.

Responses included enthusiastic endorsements such as, “Definitely Austin Jay Jay Okocha,” and “Has to be Okocha.” One fan noted, “No player comes close to Okocha,” while another highlighted the generational impact of players, stating, “Every generation had a 'best' player for me. Red Devils - Godwin Achebe; Green Eagles - Muda Lawal and Segun Odegbami; Super Eagles - Okocha.”

Jay Jay Okocha in action for Nigeria. || Imago

The poll results in the comment section were also telling: Okocha garnered an impressive 69.9% of the 11,496 total votes, leaving Nwankwo Kanu with 18%, Mikel Obi at 6.6%, and Osaze Odemwingie with 5.5%.

This outcome not only reflects Okocha's enduring legacy but also his significant impact on Nigerian football culture.

Kanu Nwankwo and Jay Jay Okocha.
Kanu Nwankwo and Jay Jay Okocha.

Okocha's illustrious career spanned several top leagues around the world, including stints at Paris Saint-Germain and Bolton Wanderers, where he became known for his dazzling skills and creativity on the ball.

His nickname, Jay Jay - "so good they named him twice," is a testament to his extraordinary talent and flair that captivated fans during his playing days.

Austin Jay Jay Okocha at Bolton. (Photo Credit: Imago)

The recognition from FIFA highlights the affection Nigerians hold for Okocha, who has become an iconic figure in football history.

His ability to entertain with his dribbling skills and playmaking prowess left an indelible mark on the sport and inspired countless young players in Nigeria and beyond.

Super Eagles legend Mikel Obi

Jay Jay Okocha’s status as a beloved figure remains unchallenged, even as discussions about Nigeria’s football legends continue, solidifying his place in the hearts of fans as they celebrate his contributions to the beautiful game.