The FA Cup, one of the most prestigious football competitions in England, has seen a number of Nigerian players achieve remarkable success. Here's a look at the Nigerian players who have left an indelible mark in the tournament's history by winning the most FA Cup trophies:
John Obi Mikel: 3
John Obi Mikel, the former captain of the Super Eagles, stands as the most successful Nigerian player in the FA Cup's history. His tenure at Chelsea FC from 2006 to 2016 was marked by significant triumphs, including winning the FA Cup three times in 2007, 2009, and 2012.
Mikel's contribution was particularly notable in the 2007 final against Manchester United, where he played every minute of the game.
Kanu Nwankwo: 3
Kanu Nwankwo is another prominent name in Nigerian football history, being the second most successful Nigerian in the FA Cup. He won the trophy three times – in 2002 and 2003 with Arsenal, and in 2008 with Portsmouth.
In the 2008 final, Kanu scored the only goal, marking his last trophy as a professional footballer.
Daniel Amokachi: 1
Daniel Amokachi, fondly known as "The Bull," was the first Nigerian to win the FA Cup. He was part of the Everton team that defeated Manchester United in the 1995 final.
Amokachi's significant contribution came in the semi-final against Tottenham Hotspur, where he scored a brace.
Victor Moses: 1
Victor Moses, a talented winger, clinched the FA Cup with Chelsea FC in 2018. Prior to this triumph, he had been a runner-up in 2017.
The 2018 final was a closely fought match against Manchester United, won by Chelsea with a penalty from Eden Hazard.
Celestine Babayaro: 1
Celestine Babayaro, a celebrated figure at Chelsea, won the FA Cup in 2000 after the club triumphed over Aston Villa in the final.
Playing as a defender, Babayaro was a key figure in the match that saw Chelsea secure the victory with a goal from Di Matteo.
Kelechi Iheanacho: 1
Kelechi Iheanacho, part of Leicester City FC, won the FA Cup in 2021. His performance throughout the competition, including a crucial goal in the semi-final, was instrumental in Leicester's success.
Alex Iwobi: 1
Alex Iwobi, currently with Everton and formerly with Arsenal, won the FA Cup in 2017 while at Arsenal. The final, played against Chelsea, ended in a 2-1 victory for Arsenal.
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