Nigeria’s Most Capped Super Eagles Players: A Look at Their Legendary Careers

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Nigeria has produced a host of exceptional football talents, but only a select few have cemented their legacy through consistent performances and long-term service to the Super Eagles.

Spanning multiple generations, these players share a common trait: unwavering commitment to representing the green and white on the international stage.

Leading the list is Ahmed Musa, who stands alone with 111 international appearances. The forward has been part of Nigeria’s national team since 2010 and remains the only Nigerian to score twice in a single World Cup match, achieving the feat against Iceland at Russia 2018.

Musa has participated in four Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournaments, winning gold in 2013, bronze in 2019, and silver in 2023. He also featured at the 2014 and 2018 World Cups, making him one of Nigeria’s most seasoned players on football’s biggest stage.

Close behind is Vincent Enyeama, the celebrated Super Eagles goalkeeper with 101 caps. Known for his composed demeanor and lightning-quick reflexes, Enyeama became a cornerstone of the national team during his career.

Enyeama’s performances at the 2013 AFCON in South Africa were pivotal in Nigeria’s tournament triumph, and he also represented the country in three World Cups and six AFCON tournaments, earning admiration for his leadership and professionalism.

Joseph Yobo, Nigeria’s first player to reach 100 caps, ranks just after Enyeama. The defender from Rivers State marshaled the backline for over a decade and lifted the 2013 AFCON trophy before retiring from international football. His displays across multiple World Cups solidified his reputation as one of Nigeria’s most reliable defensive stalwarts.

Alex Iwobi and John Obi Mikel share the next spot on Nigeria’s most capped players list, each having made 90 appearances for the Super Eagles. Iwobi’s choice in 2015 to represent Nigeria, despite playing for England at youth level, has proven rewarding for both him and the national team. His crucial goal against Zambia in 2017 secured Nigeria’s place at the 2018 World Cup.

Mikel, meanwhile, brought intelligence and composure to Nigeria’s midfield. He was a standout performer during the 2013 AFCON and played a key role in Nigeria’s Olympic bronze medal run in 2016.

Moses Simon, with 86 caps, continues to be a dependable asset for the national team. Known for his speed, agility, and direct attacking style, Simon has consistently troubled defenders across Africa. His performances at the 2023 AFCON and the 2025 Unity Cup reinforced his value. He shares this cap tally with Nwankwo Kanu and the late Muda Lawal.

Kanu’s impact extended far beyond numbers. From lifting the U-17 World Cup in 1993 to his standout displays at the 1996 Olympics, the forward maintained a presence few African players have matched. His creativity, composure, and knack for decisive moments kept him a fixture in the national team for 17 years.

Lawal, a pivotal member of Nigeria’s 1980 AFCON-winning squad, also earned 86 caps at a time when international fixtures were far less frequent than today.

William Troost-Ekong remains an active player, having already accumulated 83 caps. He shone at the 2023 AFCON, earning the Player of the Tournament accolade after leading the defense and scoring crucial goals.

Rounding out the top ten is Austin “Jay-Jay” Okocha with 73 caps. His name evokes memories of flair, creativity, and mesmerizing skill that thrilled fans long after matches ended. Okocha starred in numerous AFCON and World Cup tournaments and played a key role in Nigeria’s 1996 Olympic triumph.