Nigeria national football team facts for kids
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Nickname(s) | Super Eagles | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Association | Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Confederation | CAF (Africa) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Sub-confederation | WAFU (West Africa) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Head coach | Augustine Eguavoen (interim) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Captain | William Troost-Ekong | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Most caps | Ahmed Musa (109) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Top scorer | Rashidi Yekini (37) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Home stadium | Moshood Abiola National Stadium | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
FIFA code | NGA | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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FIFA ranking | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Current | 46 ![]() |
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Highest | 5 (April 1994) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Lowest | 82 (November 1999) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Elo ranking | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Current | 42 ![]() |
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Highest | 15 (31 May 2004) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Lowest | 72 (27 December 1964) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
First international | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
![]() ![]() (Freetown, Sierra Leone; 8 October 1949) |
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Biggest win | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
![]() ![]() (Agadir, Morocco; 14 June 2022) |
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Biggest defeat | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
![]() ![]() ![]() (Accra, Gold Coast; 1 June 1955) |
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World Cup | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Appearances | 6 (first in 1994) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Best result | Round of 16 (1994, 1998, 2014) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Africa Cup of Nations | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Appearances | 20 (first in 1963) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Best result | Champions (1980, 1994, 2013) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
African Nations Championship | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Appearances | 3 (first in 2014) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Best result | Runners-up (2018) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
WAFU Nations Cup | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Appearances | 3 (first in 2010) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Best result | Champions (2010) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Confederations Cup | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Appearances | 2 (first in 1995) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Best result | Fourth place (1995) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Medal record
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The Nigeria national football team represents Nigeria in international men's football games. They are often called the Super Eagles. This team is managed by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). They have won the Africa Cup of Nations three times. Their most recent win was in 2013. In February 2024, the Super Eagles were ranked 28th in the world by FIFA.
The team has played in six of the last eight FIFA World Cups. They missed out only in 2006 and 2022. They have reached the Round of 16 three times. Their first World Cup appearance was in 1994. Nigeria is a member of FIFA and the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
Contents
- History of the Super Eagles
- Early Years: 1963–1980
- The 1980s: A Decade of Growth
- World Cup Debut and Success: 1992–2006
- World Cups in 2002 and 2006
- Recent Years: 2008–2017
- 2010 World Cup Journey
- 2014 World Cup Journey
- 2018 World Cup Journey
- 2019 Africa Cup of Nations
- 2021 Africa Cup of Nations
- 2022 World Cup Qualification
- 2023 Africa Cup of Nations
- Team Look and Feel
- Team Rivalries
- Home Stadiums
- Recent Games and Future Matches
- Coaching Staff
- Players
- Player Records
- Tournament Records
- Team Honours
- See Also
History of the Super Eagles

Nigeria played unofficial games against other colonies starting in the 1930s. Their first official game was in October 1949. At that time, Nigeria was still a British colony. Before this, the team played practice games in England. They played against amateur teams like Bromley and Dulwich Hamlet. One match against Marine A.F.C. had 6,000 fans, which was a record for that small stadium.
Early Years: 1963–1980
Nigeria first played in the Africa Cup of Nations in 1963. They were in a group with Sudan and the United Arab Republic. They did not make it to the next stage.
The team's first big win was a gold medal in the 2nd All-Africa Games in 1973. Captain Victor Oduah led the team to this success. They then finished third in the 1976 and 1978 African Cup of Nations. In 1980, with players like Segun Odegbami, the team won their first African Cup in Lagos. Christian Chukwu was their captain.
The Nigeria Olympic Men's football team won the gold medal at the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta. They beat strong teams like Mexico, Brazil, and Argentina. They were runners-up at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing. They lost to Argentina in the final, which was a rematch of the 1996 final.
In 1984, 1988, and 2000, Nigeria reached the Africa Cup of Nations final. They lost to Cameroon each time. Cameroon has won three of its five African titles by beating Nigeria. This has created a strong rivalry between the two countries. One famous moment was in the 2000 final. A penalty kick by Victor Ikpeba was not counted by the referee.
The team pulled out of two Africa Cup of Nations tournaments between 1963 and 1974. This was due to challenges happening in the country. They also withdrew in 1996. In 1976, they returned and finished third in both the 1976 and 1978 Africa Cup of Nations.
The 1980s: A Decade of Growth
Nigeria hosted the 1980 Africa Cup of Nations and won their first title that year. This happened in Lagos. Between 1982 and 1990, Ghana finished as runners-up three times. They also failed to qualify for the 1986 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt.
World Cup Debut and Success: 1992–2006
Nigeria played in the Africa Cup of Nations again in 1992 and 1994. They finished third in 1992. Then, they won the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations, which was their second title.
Nigeria finally made it to the World Cup for the first time in 1994. They had tried for many years to qualify. Clemens Westerhof was their manager. Nigeria won their group, which included Argentina, Bulgaria, and Greece. Nigeria beat Bulgaria 3–0. They lost to Argentina 1–2. They reached the second round after beating Greece 2–0.
In the second round, Nigeria played Italy. Emmanuel Amunike scored a goal in the 25th minute, giving Nigeria the lead. Nigeria was very close to reaching the quarter-finals. But then Roberto Baggio scored for Italy, sending the game into extra time. He scored again, and Italy won 2–1. In 1996, the team pulled out of the African Cup of Nations. This was due to issues with the country's government. Nigeria was then banned from the 1998 African Cup of Nations.
In 1998, Nigeria returned to the World Cup. They were joined by Cameroon, Morocco, Tunisia, and South Africa. People were hopeful because of their manager Bora Milutinović. Most of the 1994 players were back. Nigeria was in Group D with Spain, Bulgaria, and Paraguay. Nigeria caused a big surprise by beating Spain 3–2. They came back twice after being behind. The Eagles qualified for the second round with a win against Bulgaria. They lost to Paraguay. The team's hopes of doing better than in 1994 ended. They lost 1–4 to Denmark. This is the only World Cup Nigeria qualified for without playing Argentina.
In 2000, they returned to the Africa Cup of Nations. They finished as runners-up. They then finished third in the 2002, 2004, and 2006 Africa Cup of Nations.
World Cups in 2002 and 2006
Nigeria qualified for the 2002 World Cup in South Korea and Japan. There was a new team and bright green uniforms. The Super Eagles were expected to do well. Nigeria was in Group F with strong teams like Sweden, Argentina, and England. Their first game against Argentina was a tough defensive battle. Argentina won 1–0 after a goal in the 61st minute. Nigeria's second game against Sweden saw them take the lead. But they later lost 2–1. Nigeria then drew 0–0 with England. They were out in the first round.
Nigeria did not qualify for the 2006 World Cup. They finished with the same points as Angola. But Angola had a better record in games played between them.
Recent Years: 2008–2017
In the 2008 Africa Cup of Nations, Nigeria lost to Ghana in the quarter-finals. They qualified for the 2010 Africa Cup of Nations in Angola. But Ghana beat them in the semi-finals. They failed to qualify for the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations. This happened after a 2–2 draw against Guinea.
Nigeria came back strong in the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations in South Africa. They played without losing any games. They beat Burkina Faso in the final to win the Cup for the third time. However, they did not qualify for the next two tournaments.
2010 World Cup Journey
On November 14, 2009, Nigeria qualified for the 2010 World Cup. They beat Kenya 3–2 in Nairobi.
Nigeria lost their first match 1–0 to Argentina. This was at Ellis Park Stadium. In their second game, Nigeria led early with a goal from Kalu Uche. But a red card for Sani Kaita gave Greece an advantage. Greece scored and won 2–1. In their last group game against South Korea, Nigeria scored first. But South Korea came back to lead 2–1. Yakubu missed an open goal for Nigeria. He later scored a penalty to make it 2–2. But Nigeria could not score again. They were out of the 2010 World Cup with only one point.
After the team's early exit, the President of Nigeria, Goodluck Jonathan, suspended the team from international games for two years. This put the team at risk of being banned by FIFA. FIFA does not allow governments to interfere in football. The Nigerian government later removed the ban. But FIFA still applied a suspension for a few months.
2014 World Cup Journey
Nigeria's journey in the 2014 FIFA World Cup started with a 0–0 draw against Iran. Four days later, they played Bosnia and Herzegovina. A goal from Peter Odemwingie gave Nigeria their first World Cup win since 1998. They then faced Argentina. Lionel Messi scored early for Argentina. Ahmed Musa quickly equalized for Nigeria. Messi scored again before half-time. In the second half, Musa scored again to tie the game. Argentina then scored to win 3–2.
Nigeria lost the match but still made it to the Round of 16. There, Nigeria played France. An early goal for Nigeria was disallowed. Nigeria held France until the 79th minute. Then, Paul Pogba scored for France. An own goal by Captain Joseph Yobo in injury time sealed Nigeria's defeat. Nigeria was out. This was the third time Nigeria was knocked out in the Round of 16. They still had not reached the quarter-finals in the FIFA World Cup.
2018 World Cup Journey

On June 24, 2016, the Confederation of African Football announced the draw for the World Cup qualifiers. Nigeria was in a tough group with Zambia, Algeria, and Cameroon. Nigeria started with a 2–1 win over Zambia. They beat Algeria 3–1. They then beat Cameroon 5–1 both home and away.
The Super Eagles were the first African team to qualify for the 2018 FIFA World Cup. They beat Zambia 1–0. On June 3, 2018, coach Gernot Rohr named his 23-man squad. Nigeria lost their first game 0–2 to Croatia. But they won their second match 2–0 against Iceland. Ahmed Musa scored both goals. Nigeria had a good chance to qualify. But they lost 2–1 to Argentina in their last group game. Victor Moses scored for Nigeria. This loss meant Nigeria did not make it to the Round of 16.
2019 Africa Cup of Nations
The Super Eagles started the 2019 AFCON by beating Burundi 1–0. They then beat Guinea. But they lost 2–0 to Madagascar in their final group match. In the Round of 16, Nigeria beat Cameroon 3–2. Goals came from Jude Ighalo and Iwobi. They then played South Africa in the quarter-finals. A late header from Troost-Ekong gave Nigeria a 2–1 win. Nigeria faced Algeria in the semi-finals. They were knocked out after a very late free kick from Riyad Mahrez. The Super Eagles then played Tunisia for third place. They won 1–0 with a goal from Ighalo. This made him the top scorer of the tournament.
2021 Africa Cup of Nations
On July 18, 2019, the Confederation of African Football announced the draw for the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualification. The Super Eagles were in Group L with Lesotho, Benin, and Sierra Leone. Nigeria started by beating Benin 2–1. They then beat Lesotho 4–2 away from home. In March 2020, the AFCON qualifiers were put on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2021 African Cup of Nations was moved to 2022. The qualifiers started again in November 2020.
The 2021 AFCON began on January 9, 2022. Nigeria was the only team to win all three group stage matches. They beat Egypt 1–0, Sudan 3–1, and Guinea-Bissau 2–0. However, Nigeria lost 1–0 to Tunisia in the Round of 16 on January 23.
2022 World Cup Qualification
Nigeria did not qualify for the FIFA World Cup for the first time in 16 years. They lost to Ghana on the away goals rule. The scores were 0–0 in Ghana and 1–1 in Nigeria.
2023 Africa Cup of Nations
The Super Eagles started their 2023 AFCON by drawing 1–1 with Equatorial Guinea. They then beat hosts Ivory Coast 1–0. They also beat Guinea Bissau by the same score. In the Round of 16, Nigeria beat Cameroon 2–0. Ademola Lookman scored both goals. They then beat Angola in the quarter-finals with a goal from Lookman. Nigeria faced South Africa in the semi-finals. The match ended 1–1 after extra time. Kelechi Iheanacho scored in the penalty shootout. Nigeria won 4–2 on penalties. In the final, the Super Eagles finished as runners-up. They lost 2–1 to hosts Ivory Coast.
Team Look and Feel
Kits and Team Name
The Nigeria national team usually wears green for their home games. Their away kits are all white. These colors represent the Nigerian flag. The shade of green has changed over the years. In the past, they used a darker green. Now, they use a standard green, like the one on the flag. Nigeria's first national teams wore red shirts with white shorts and socks. They changed to green and white after Nigeria became independent.
On April 23, 2015, Nike became the supplier of Nigeria's kits. Before that, Nike supplied kits from 1994 to 2003.
Kit Suppliers
Kit supplier | Period |
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1980–1984 |
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1984–1987 |
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1988–1994 |
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1994–2003 |
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2004–2014 |
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2015–present |
Nigeria's team name has changed over time. Before Nigeria became independent, they were called the "Red Devils" because of their red shirts. After independence, they became the "Green Eagles." This name came from the Nigerian flag and the eagle on the country's coat of arms. In 1988, the team's name officially changed to the "Super Eagles." Today, only the senior men's team uses this nickname. The women's team is called the "Super Falcons." Younger male teams are called the "Flying Eagles" and the "Golden Eaglets."
Media and Fans
The Nigerian Football Federation has a deal with AIT and Ray Power Radio. This helps broadcast games. Internationally, Nigeria's qualifying and African Cup matches are shown by beIN Sports and SuperSport. Friendly matches are often played in the UK. This is for the many Nigerian people living there.

Nigerian football fans are very lively. They wear green outfits, wigs, hats, and sunglasses. They dance, sing, play drums, and wave flags. They travel to support Nigeria in away matches too. However, the fan club sometimes faces problems with money and disagreements.
At home matches, a brass and percussion band often plays. They perform popular Highlife songs. This gives Nigerian games a special feeling. A common chant after a goal is "Oshe Baba!" This means "Thank you father!" in the Yoruba language.
Team Rivalries
Ghana
Ghana is Nigeria's biggest rival. They have played each other more than any other team. Both are very successful in Africa. Nigeria had strong periods against Ghana, especially in the 1950s and early 2000s. FIFA says their first official match was a World Cup qualifier in 1960. But they played competitive games since 1950. The rivalry between these two West African teams is known as the Jollof Derby.
Cameroon
Cameroon, Nigeria's neighbor, is also a big rival. They have met three times in the final of the African Cup of Nations. Cameroon won all three finals. Both teams have a history of success in Africa and have played in many World Cups.
Their rivalry began in 1960. Nigeria has generally been the stronger team. But in the AFCON finals of 1984, 1988, and 2000, Cameroon won. Nigeria has qualified for six FIFA World Cups. They reached the Round of 16 three times. Cameroon has qualified eight times, reaching the quarter-finals once in 1990.
Other African Nations
Nigeria also has competitive matches with Algeria. They first played in the 1970s. They met twice in the African Cup of Nations finals, with each team winning once. A 1–1 draw in Algeria in 1993 helped Nigeria qualify for their first World Cup in 1994. Nigeria had a long unbeaten run against Algeria. But Algeria won in the semi-finals of the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations.
Nigeria's western neighbor, Benin, has also played against the team. But Nigeria has won most of these games. Benin is not seen as a major rival.
Argentina
In five of its first six World Cup appearances, Nigeria was in the same group as Argentina. Argentina is a three-time World Cup champion. Nigeria has played well against them. This match-up is the most common in World Cup history for an African team. Argentina has won all five World Cup games against Nigeria. But all were by only one goal. These games were very close. Nigeria has won two friendly matches against Argentina.
Nigeria almost beat Argentina in their first meeting. They led for some time in the game. In the 1995 Confederations Cup, Nigeria held Argentina to a 0–0 draw. At the Olympic Games, their teams played for the gold medal. Nigeria won in 1996 (3–2). Argentina won in 2008 (1–0). In the 2005 FIFA World Youth Championship final, Argentina won 2–1. Both goals for Argentina were scored by Lionel Messi. He later scored against Nigeria in the 2014 and 2018 World Cups.
Many Nigerian fans see games against Argentina as a way to measure their team's progress. Argentine fans usually don't see Nigeria as a rival. But they know they must play carefully against Nigeria.
Home Stadiums
The Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja is the official home stadium of the Super Eagles. Many international matches are also played in other stadiums across Nigeria. The Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo often hosts the Super Eagles' important home matches.
Super Eagles Match Venues
Stadium | Capacity | Commissioned | City | State/Territory |
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Godswill Akpabio International Stadium | 30,000 | 2012 | Uyo | Akwa Ibom |
Stephen Keshi Stadium | 22,000 | 2018 | Asaba | Delta |
Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium | 38,000 | 2015 | Port Harcourt | Rivers |
Moshood Abiola National Stadium | 60,491 | 2000 | Abuja | FCT |
Lagos National Stadium | 45,000 | 1972 | Surulere | Lagos |
U. J. Esuene Stadium | 16,000 | 1977 | Calabar | Cross River |
Teslim Balogun Stadium | 24,325 | 1984 | Surulere | Lagos |
Obafemi Awolowo Stadium | 25,000 | 1960 | Ibadan | Oyo |
Sani Abacha Stadium | 16,000 | 1998 | Kano | Kano |
Ahmadu Bello Stadium | 16,000 | 1965 | Kaduna | Kaduna |
Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium | 22,000 | 1986 | Enugu | Enugu |
Liberation Stadium | 16,000 | Port Harcourt | Rivers |
Recent Games and Future Matches
Here are the football match results from the last 12 months, and any future games.
Win Draw Loss Fixture
2023 Matches
2026 World Cup qualification 19 November | Zimbabwe ![]() |
1–1 | ![]() |
Butare | ||
15:00 UTC+2 | Musona ![]() |
https://www.fifa.com/fifaplus/en/match-centre/match/520/288282/288289/400017592 | Ịheanachọ ![]() |
Stadium: Stade Huye Referee: Souleiman Ahmed Djama (Djibouti) |
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2024 Matches
Friendly 8 January | Guinea ![]() |
2–0 | ![]() |
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates | ||
16:00 UTC+4 | https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2024/01/08/world/friendlies/guinea/nigeria/4296121/ | Stadium: Baniyas Stadium |
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2023 AFCON GS 14 January | Nigeria ![]() |
1–1 | ![]() |
Abidjan, Ivory Coast | ||
14:00 | Osimhen ![]() |
https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2024/01/14/africa/africa-cup-of-nations/nigeria/equatorial-guinea/4262294/ | Salvador ![]() |
Stadium: Alassane Ouattara Stadium Attendance: 8,500 Referee: Abongile Tom (South Africa) |
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2023 AFCON GS 18 January | Ivory Coast ![]() |
0–1 | ![]() |
Abidjan, Ivory Coast | ||
17:00 | https://www.cafonline.com/caf-africa-cup-of-nations/match-centre?competition=190&season=2023&match=2411907 |
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Stadium: Alassane Ouattara Stadium Attendance: 49,517 Referee: Mustapha Ghorbal (Algeria) |
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2023 AFCON GS 22 January | Guinea-Bissau ![]() |
0–1 | ![]() |
Abidjan, Ivory Coast | ||
17:00 | https://www.cafonline.com/caf-africa-cup-of-nations/match-centre?competition=190&season=2023&match=2411910 | Stadium: Felix Houphouet Boigny Stadium Attendance: 15,650 Referee: Bouchra Karboubi (Morocco) |
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2023 AFCON R16 27 January | Nigeria ![]() |
2–0 | ![]() |
Abidjan, Ivory Coast | ||
20:00 | https://www.cafonline.com/caf-africa-cup-of-nations/match-centre?competition=190&season=2023&match=2414307 | Stadium: Felix Houphouet Boigny Stadium Attendance: 22,085 Referee: Redouane Jiyed (Morocco) |
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2023 AFCON QF 2 February | Nigeria ![]() |
1–0 | ![]() |
Abidjan, Ivory Coast | ||
17:00 | https://www.cafonline.com/caf-africa-cup-of-nations/match-centre?competition=190&season=2023&match=2414314 | Stadium: Felix Houphouet Boigny Stadium Attendance: 18,757 Referee: Issa Sy (Senegal) |
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2023 AFCON SF 7 February | Nigeria ![]() |
1–1 (4–2 pen)
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Bouaké, Ivory Coast | ||
17:00 |
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https://www.cafonline.com/caf-africa-cup-of-nations/match-centre?competition=190&season=2023&match=2414323 |
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Stadium: Stade de la Paix Attendance: 31,227 Referee: Amin Omar (Egypt) |
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Penalties | ||||||
*Moffi ![]()
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*![]()
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2023 AFCON F 11 February | Nigeria ![]() |
1–2 | ![]() |
Abidjan, Ivory Coast | ||
20:00 | https://www.cafonline.com/caf-africa-cup-of-nations/match-centre?competition=190&season=2023&match=2414326 | Stadium: Alassane Ouattara Stadium Attendance: 57,094 Referee: Dahane Beida (Mauritania) |
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Friendly 22 March | Nigeria ![]() |
2–1 | ![]() |
Marrakech, Morocco | ||
15:00 UTC±0 |
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https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2024/03/22/world/friendlies/nigeria/ghana/4334672/ |
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Stadium: Stade de Marrakech Referee: Rédouane Jiyed (Morocco) |
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Friendly 26 March | Nigeria ![]() |
0–2 | ![]() |
Marrakech, Morocco | ||
19:00 UTC±0 | https://int.soccerway.com/matches/2024/03/26/world/friendlies/mali/nigeria/4334673/ | Stadium: Stade de Marrakech Referee: Samir Guezzaz (Morocco) |
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2026 World Cup qualification 7 June | Nigeria ![]() |
1–1 | ![]() |
Uyo, Nigeria | ||
20:00 UTC+1 | https://www.fifa.com/fifaplus/en/match-centre/match/520/288282/288289/400018175 | Stadium: Godswill Akpabio International Stadium Referee: Alhadi Allaou Mahamat (Chad) |
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2026 World Cup qualification 10 June | Benin ![]() |
2–1 | ![]() |
Abidjan, Ivory Coast | ||
16:00 UTC±0 | https://www.fifa.com/fifaplus/en/match-centre/match/520/288282/288289/400018177 | Stadium: Felix Houphouet Boigny Stadium Attendance: 9,000 Referee: Pierre Atcho (Gabon) |
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2025 AFCON qualification 7 September | Nigeria ![]() |
3–0 | ![]() |
Uyo, Nigeria | ||
17:00 UTC+1 |
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https://www.cafonline.com/caf-africa-cup-of-nations/match-centre?competition=601&season=2024&match=2459882 | Stadium: Godswill Akpabio International Stadium Referee: Alamin Alhadi Mohamed (Sudan) |
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2025 AFCON qualification 10 September | Rwanda ![]() |
0–0 | ![]() |
Kigali, Rwanda | ||
17:00 UTC+2 | https://www.cafonline.com/caf-africa-cup-of-nations/match-centre?competition=601&season=2024&match=2459885 | Stadium: Amahoro Stadium Referee: Karim Sabry (Morocco) |
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2025 AFCON qualification 11 October | Nigeria ![]() |
1–0 | ![]() |
Uyo, Nigeria | ||
17:00 UTC+1 | https://www.cafonline.com/caf-africa-cup-of-nations/match-centre?competition=601&season=2024&match=2459886 | Stadium: [[Godswill Akpabio International Stadium]] Referee: Godfrey Nkhakananga (Malawi) |
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2025 AFCON qualification 15 October | Libya ![]() |
0–3 Awarded |
![]() |
Benghazi, Libya | ||
21:00 UTC+2 | Stadium: Martyrs of February Stadium Referee: Lenine Rocha (Cape Verde) |
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Note: The Libya v Nigeria match, originally scheduled for 15 October 2024, was cancelled after the Nigerian team was allegedly left stranded at Al Abraq International Airport for more than 12 hours upon arrival, two days before the match. This led the Nigeria Football Federation to refuse to play and send their team back home. CAF later confirmed that the match would not take place and stated that a decision regarding its outcome would be made. |
2025 AFCON qualification 14 November | Benin ![]() |
1-1 | ![]() |
Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire | ||
Stadium: Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny |
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2025 AFCON qualification 18 November | Nigeria ![]() |
1-2 | ![]() |
Uyo, Nigeria | ||
Chukwueze ![]() |
https://www.bbc.com/pidgin/articles/cgk10nyzj0yo | Mutsinzi ![]() |
Stadium: Godswill Akpabio International Stadium |
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Coaching Staff
The Super Eagles' coaching staff includes a technical adviser (head coach) and assistant coaches. The second assistant coach works with the home-based team. They also help with the CHAN tournament. Other roles include a technical assistant and a goalkeeper trainer.
Position | Name |
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Technical director | ![]() |
Head coach | Vacant |
Assistant coach | ![]() |
Football ambassador | ![]() |
Sports administrator | ![]() |
Goalkeeping coach | ![]() |
Fitness coach | ![]() |
Video analyst | ![]() |
Match analyst | ![]() |
Coaching History
- Caretaker managers are shown in italics.
Jack Finch (1949)
Adewale Adegoke (1950–1952)
Daniel Anyiam (1954–1956)
Les Courtier (1956–1960)
Jerry Beit haLevi (1960–1961)
George Vardar (1961–1963)
Jorge Penna (1963–1964)
Daniel Anyiam (1964–1965)
József Ember (1965–1968)
Sabino Barinaga (1968–1969)
Peter Amaechina (1969–1970)
Karl-Heinz Marotzke (1970–1972)
Jorge Penna (1972–1973)
Karl-Heinz Marotzke (1973–1974)
Tiko Jelisavčić (1974–1978)
Otto Glória (1978–1981)
Gottlieb Göller (1981)
Adegboyega Onigbinde (1981–1984)
Chris Udemezue (1984–1986)
Manfred Höner (1987–1988)
Paul Hamilton (1989)
Clemens Westerhof (1989–1994)
Shuaibu Amodu (1994–1995)
Jo Bonfrère (1995–1996)
Shuaibu Amodu (1996–1997)
Philippe Troussier (1997)
Bora Milutinović (1997–1998)
Thijs Libregts (1998–1999)
Jo Bonfrère (1999–2001)
Shuaibu Amodu (2001–2002)
Festus Onigbinde (2002)
Christian Chukwu (2003–2005)
Augustine Eguavoen (2005–2007)
Berti Vogts (2007–2008)
Shuaibu Amodu (2008–2010)
Lars Lagerbäck (2010)
Augustine Eguavoen (2010)
Samson Siasia (2010–2011)
Stephen Keshi (2011–2014)
Shuaibu Amodu (2014)
Stephen Keshi (2015)
Shuaibu Amodu (2015)
Sunday Oliseh (2015–2016)
Samson Siasia (2016)
Salisu Yusuf (2016)
Gernot Rohr (2016–2021)
Augustine Eguavoen (2021–2022)
José Peseiro (2022–2024)
Augustine Eguavoen (2024)
Finidi George (2024)
Augustine Eguavoen (2024–present)
Players
Current Squad
These players were called up for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nation qualification matches in October 2024.
Caps and goals are correct as of September 10, 2024, after the match against Rwanda.
No. | Pos. | Player | Date of birth (age) | Caps | Goals | Club |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
GK | Stanley Nwabili | 10 June 1996 | 16 | 0 | ![]() |
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GK | Maduka Okoye | 28 August 1999 | 16 | 0 | ![]() |
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GK | Amas Obasogie | 27 December 1999 | 0 | 0 | ![]() |
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DF | William Troost-Ekong (captain) | 1 September 1993 | 73 | 7 | ![]() |
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DF | Ola Aina | 8 October 1996 | 42 | 0 | ![]() |
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DF | Semi Ajayi | 9 November 1993 | 41 | 1 | ![]() |
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DF | Calvin Bassey | 31 December 1999 | 27 | 0 | ![]() |
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DF | Bright Osayi-Samuel | 31 December 1997 | 18 | 0 | ![]() |
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DF | Bruno Onyemaechi | 3 April 1999 | 8 | 0 | ![]() |
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DF | Benjamin Tanimu | 24 July 2002 | 3 | 0 | ![]() |
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MF | Alex Iwobi | 3 May 1996 | 81 | 10 | ![]() |
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MF | Moses Simon | 12 July 1995 | 74 | 9 | ![]() |
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MF | Wilfred Ndidi | 16 December 1996 | 59 | 0 | ![]() |
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MF | Frank Onyeka | 1 January 1998 | 26 | 1 | ![]() |
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MF | Raphael Onyedika | 19 April 2001 | 11 | 1 | ![]() |
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MF | Alhassan Yusuf | 18 July 2000 | 7 | 0 | ![]() |
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MF | Fisayo Dele-Bashiru | 6 February 2001 | 4 | 1 | ![]() |
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FW | Kelechi Iheanacho | 3 October 1996 | 55 | 15 | ![]() |
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FW | Samuel Chukwueze | 22 May 1999 | 40 | 5 | ![]() |
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FW | Ademola Lookman | 20 October 1997 | 25 | 8 | ![]() |
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FW | Taiwo Awoniyi | 12 August 1997 | 9 | 2 | ![]() |
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FW | Victor Boniface | 23 December 2000 | 8 | 1 | ![]() |
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FW | Chidera Ejuke | 2 January 1998 | 8 | 0 | ![]() |
Recent Call-ups
These players have also been called up to the Nigeria squad in the last year.
Pos. | Player | Date of birth (age) | Caps | Goals | Club | Latest call-up |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
GK | Olorunleke Ojo | 17 August 1995 | 0 | 0 | ![]() |
v. ![]() |
GK | Adebayo Adeleye | 17 May 2000 | 1 | 0 | ![]() |
2023 Africa Cup of Nations PRE |
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DF | Olisa Ndah | 21 January 1998 | 5 | 0 | ![]() |
v. ![]() |
DF | Chidozie Awaziem | 1 January 1997 | 34 | 1 | ![]() |
v. ![]() |
DF | Ismaila Sodiq | 13 August 2003 | 1 | 0 | ![]() |
v. ![]() |
DF | Kenneth Omeruo | 17 October 1993 | 69 | 1 | ![]() |
v. ![]() |
DF | Jamilu Collins | 5 August 1994 | 30 | 0 | ![]() |
v. ![]() |
DF | Tyronne Ebuehi | 16 December 1995 | 12 | 0 | ![]() |
v. ![]() |
DF | Gabriel Osho | 14 August 1998 | 0 | 0 | ![]() |
v. ![]() |
DF | Zaidu Sanusi | 13 June 1997 | 22 | 0 | ![]() |
2023 Africa Cup of Nations |
DF | Kevin Akpoguma | 19 April 1995 | 8 | 0 | ![]() |
2023 Africa Cup of Nations PRE |
DF | Jordan Torunarigha | 7 August 1997 | 1 | 0 | ![]() |
2023 Africa Cup of Nations PRE |
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MF | Joe Aribo | 21 July 1996 | 34 | 2 | ![]() |
2023 Africa Cup of Nations |
MF | Kelechi Nwakali | 5 June 1998 | 4 | 0 | ![]() |
2023 Africa Cup of Nations PRE |
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FW | Victor Osimhen | 29 December 1998 | 37 | 22 | ![]() |
v. ![]() |
FW | Paul Onuachu | 28 May 1994 | 24 | 3 | ![]() |
v. ![]() |
FW | Terem Moffi | 25 May 1999 | 18 | 4 | ![]() |
v. ![]() |
FW | Nathan Tella | 5 July 1999 | 1 | 0 | ![]() |
v. ![]() |
FW | Umar Sadiq | 2 February 1997 | 11 | 1 | ![]() |
v. ![]() |
FW | Cyriel Dessers | 8 December 1994 | 6 | 2 | ![]() |
v. ![]() |
FW | Ahmed Musa | 14 October 1992 | 110 | 18 | ![]() |
2023 Africa Cup of Nations |
FW | Emmanuel Dennis | 15 November 1997 | 8 | 1 | ![]() |
2023 Africa Cup of Nations PRE |
INJ The player is not part of the current squad due to injury |
Player Records
Statistics include official FIFA-recognized matches only. Players in bold are still active with Nigeria.
Most Appearances

Rank | Player | Caps | Goals | Career |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Ahmed Musa | 109 | 16 | 2010–present |
2 | Vincent Enyeama | 101 | 0 | 2002–2015 |
Joseph Yobo | 101 | 7 | 2001–2014 | |
4 | Mikel John Obi | 91 | 6 | 2005–2019 |
5 | Nwankwo Kanu | 86 | 12 | 1994–2011 |
Mudashiru Lawal | 86 | 11 | 1975–1985 | |
7 | Alex Iwobi | 81 | 10 | 2015–present |
8 | Jay-Jay Okocha | 73 | 14 | 1993–2006 |
William Troost-Ekong | 73 | 7 | 2015–present | |
10 | Moses Simon | 72 | 9 | 2015–present |
Top Goalscorers
Rank | Player | Goals | Caps | Ratio | Career |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Rashidi Yekini | 37 | 62 | 0.6 | 1983–1998 |
2 | Victor Osimhen | 23 | 38 | 0.61 | 2017–present |
Segun Odegbami | 23 | 47 | 0.47 | 1976–1981 | |
4 | Yakubu Aigyegbeni | 21 | 58 | 0.36 | 2000–2012 |
5 | Ikechukwu Uche | 19 | 46 | 0.41 | 2007–2014 |
6 | Obafemi Martins | 18 | 42 | 0.43 | 2004–2015 |
7 | Samson Siasia | 17 | 49 | 0.35 | 1984–1998 |
8 | Odion Ighalo | 16 | 37 | 0.43 | 2015–present |
Ahmed Musa | 16 | 109 | 0.15 | 2010–present | |
10 | Asuquo Ekpe | 14 | 28 | 0.5 | 1956–1966 |
Julius Aghahowa | 14 | 32 | 0.44 | 2000–2007 | |
Kelechi Iheanacho | 14 | 54 | 0.26 | 2015–present | |
Jay-Jay Okocha | 14 | 73 | 0.19 | 1993–2006 |
Tournament Records
FIFA World Cup
FIFA World Cup Record | Qualification Record | |||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Year | Round | Position | Pld | W | D | L | GF | GA | Squad | Pld | W | D | L | GF | GA | Total | ||||
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Part of ![]() |
Part of ![]() |
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1934 to 1958 | Not a FIFA member | Not a FIFA member | ||||||||||||||||||
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Did not qualify | 2 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 3 | 6 | 1962 | ||||||||||||
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Withdrew | Withdrew | ||||||||||||||||||
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Did not qualify | 8 | 3 | 4 | 1 | 15 | 12 | 1970 | ||||||||||||
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4 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 3 | 4 | 1974 | |||||||||||||
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8 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 17 | 8 | 1978 | |||||||||||||
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8 | 3 | 2 | 3 | 8 | 8 | 1982 | |||||||||||||
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6 | 5 | 0 | 1 | 11 | 3 | 1986 | |||||||||||||
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6 | 3 | 1 | 2 | 7 | 5 | 1990 | |||||||||||||
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Round of 16 | 9th | 4 | 2 | 0 | 2 | 7 | 4 | Squad | 8 | 5 | 2 | 1 | 17 | 5 | 1994 | ||||
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12th | 4 | 2 | 0 | 2 | 6 | 9 | Squad | 6 | 4 | 1 | 1 | 10 | 4 | 1998 | |||||
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Group stage | 27th | 3 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 3 | Squad | 10 | 6 | 2 | 2 | 19 | 3 | 2002 | ||||
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Did not qualify | 10 | 6 | 3 | 1 | 21 | 7 | 2006 | ||||||||||||
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Group stage | 27th | 3 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | Squad | 12 | 9 | 3 | 0 | 20 | 5 | 2010 | ||||
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Round of 16 | 16th | 4 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | Squad | 8 | 5 | 3 | 0 | 11 | 4 | 2014 | ||||
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Group stage | 21st | 3 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Squad | 8 | 5 | 2 | 1 | 13 | 6 | 2018 | ||||
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Did not qualify | 8 | 4 | 3 | 1 | 10 | 4 | 2022 | ||||||||||||
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To be determined | 4 | 0 | 3 | 1 | 4 | 5 | 2026 | ||||||||||||
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To be determined | |||||||||||||||||||
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Total | Round of 16 | 6/16 | 21 | 6 | 3 | 12 | 23 | 30 | — | 116 | 62 | 35 | 19 | 189 | 89 | – |
Africa Cup of Nations
Africa Cup of Nations Record | Qualification Record | |||||||||||||||||
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Year | Round | Position | Pld | W | D* | L | GF | GA | Squad | Pld | W | D* | L | GF | GA | |||
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Not part of CAF | Not part of CAF | ||||||||||||||||
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Withdrew | 4 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 4 | 5 | |||||||||||
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Group stage | 6th | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 3 | 10 | Squad | 2 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 3 | |||
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Withdrew | Withdrew | ||||||||||||||||
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Did not qualify | 4 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | |||||||||||
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Withdrew | Withdrew | ||||||||||||||||
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Did not qualify | 2 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | |||||||||||
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4 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 7 | 9 | ||||||||||||
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Third place | 3rd | 6 | 3 | 1 | 2 | 11 | 10 | Squad | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 1 | |||
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Third place | 3rd | 5 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 8 | 5 | Squad | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 7 | 4 | |||
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Champions | 1st | 5 | 4 | 1 | 0 | 8 | 1 | Squad | Qualified as hosts | ||||||||
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Group stage | 6th | 3 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 4 | 5 | Squad | Qualified as holders | ||||||||
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Runners-up | 2nd | 5 | 1 | 3 | 1 | 7 | 8 | Squad | 4 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 1 | |||
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Did not qualify | 2 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 1 | |||||||||||
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Runners-up | 2nd | 5 | 1 | 3 | 1 | 5 | 3 | Squad | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 6 | 3 | |||
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Runners-up | 2nd | 5 | 3 | 0 | 2 | 5 | 6 | Squad | 4 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 8 | 2 | |||
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Third place | 3rd | 5 | 4 | 0 | 1 | 8 | 5 | Squad | 8 | 4 | 3 | 1 | 15 | 3 | |||
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Champions | 1st | 5 | 3 | 2 | 0 | 9 | 3 | Squad | 6 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 12 | 1 | |||
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Withdrew | Qualified as holders | ||||||||||||||||
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Banned | Banned | ||||||||||||||||
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Runners-up | 2nd | 6 | 4 | 2 | 0 | 12 | 5 | Squad | Qualified as hosts | ||||||||
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Third place | 3rd | 6 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 5 | 2 | Squad | 6 | 4 | 2 | 0 | 9 | 1 | |||
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Third place | 3rd | 6 | 4 | 1 | 1 | 11 | 5 | Squad | 4 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 7 | 3 | |||
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Third place | 3rd | 6 | 4 | 1 | 1 | 7 | 3 | Squad | 10 | 6 | 3 | 1 | 21 | 7 | |||
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Quarter-finals | 7th | 4 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 3 | Squad | 6 | 5 | 0 | 1 | 10 | 3 | |||
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Third place | 3rd | 6 | 3 | 1 | 2 | 6 | 4 | Squad | 12 | 9 | 3 | 0 | 20 | 5 | |||
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Did not qualify | 6 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 12 | 5 | |||||||||||
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Champions | 1st | 6 | 4 | 2 | 0 | 11 | 4 | Squad | 4 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 10 | 3 | |||
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Did not qualify | 6 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 9 | 7 | |||||||||||
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4 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 2 | ||||||||||||
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Third place | 3rd | 7 | 5 | 0 | 2 | 9 | 7 | Squad | 6 | 4 | 1 | 1 | 14 | 6 | |||
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Round of 16 | 9th | 4 | 3 | 0 | 1 | 6 | 2 | Squad | 6 | 4 | 2 | 0 | 14 | 7 | |||
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Runners-up | 2nd | 7 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 8 | 4 | Squad | 6 | 5 | 0 | 1 | 22 | 4 | |||
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Qualified | 5 | 3 | 2 | 0 | 8 | 1 | |||||||||||
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To be determined | To be determined | ||||||||||||||||
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Total | 3 Titles | 20/34 | 104 | 57 | 24 | 23 | 146 | 95 | — | 126 | 67 | 39 | 20 | 221 | 93 |
- *Denotes draws including knockout matches decided via a penalty shoot-out.
- **Red border color means the tournament was held in Nigeria.
African Nations Championship
WAFU Nations Cup
FIFA Confederations Cup
FIFA Confederations Cup Record | |||||||||
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Year | Round | Position | Pld | W | D* | L | GF | GA | Squad |
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Did not qualify | ||||||||
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Fourth place | 4th | 3 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 4 | 1 | Squad |
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Did not qualify | ||||||||
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Group stage | 5th | 3 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 7 | 6 | Squad |
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Did not qualify | ||||||||
Total | Fourth place | 2/10 | 6 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 11 | 7 |
Olympic Games
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African Games
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Team Honours
Major CompetitionsIntercontinental Continental
Regional Competitions
Friendly Competitions
Awards
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Summary of Medals
Senior Competition | ![]() |
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Total |
---|---|---|---|---|
CAF African Cup of Nations | 3 | 5 | 8 | 16 |
CAF African Nations Championship | 0 | 1 | 1 | 2 |
Afro-Asian Cup of Nations | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
Total | 4 | 6 | 9 | 19 |
- This competition is organized by the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa. FIFA does not officially recognize it.
See Also
In Spanish: Selección de fútbol de Nigeria para niños
- Nigeria national under-23 football team
- Nigeria national under-20 football team
- Nigeria national under-17 football team
- Nigeria national futsal team
- Nigeria national beach soccer team
- Nigeria women's national football team
- Nigeria women's national under-20 football team
- Nigeria women's national under-17 football team