Jay Jay Okocha: Super Eagles Players Salute AFCON Legend After Equatorial Guinea Draw, Video

Jay Jay Okocha: Super Eagles Players Salute AFCON Legend After Equatorial Guinea Draw, Video

Ero Samson
updated at February 13, 2024 at 11:54 AM
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  • Nigeria’s Super Eagle kicked off their AFCON with a draw against Equatorial Guinea
  • National team legend Jay Jay Okocha was in attendance for the opening fixture
  • Nigerian players took time to salute the ex-midfielder in a heartwarming video

The Super Eagles of Nigeria kicked off their 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign with a clash against the Nzalang Nacional of Equatorial Guinea.

The game, which had many fans and supporters of the national team on the edge of their seats, was graced with loads of dignitaries and notable sporting figures.

AFCON, Nigeria, Super Eagles, Okocha, Osimhen
Nigeria's forward Victor Osimhen reacts during the AFCON clash between the Super Eagles and Equatorial Guinea. Image: Issouf Sanogo.
Source: Getty Images

Among them was the esteemed Super Eagles icon and 1994 Cup of Nations champion, Austin Jay Jay Okocha.

The 50-year-old, who has continued to show his unwavering support for the Super Eagles, was on hand to cheer Jose Peseiro’s team through what can be admittedly regarded as an underwhelming display.

The former Bolton Wanderers star, spotted occasionally in the stands during the clash, subsequently took time to lift up the team's mood following the game's conclusion.

Okocha visits Super Eagles

In a video shared on social media by @CAF_Online, the former captain of Nigeria was seen waiting in the tunnel after the conclusion of the second half.

Spotting him, Ola Aina and Calvin Bassey respectfully bowed to greet the ex-Super Eagles captain. Alex Iwobi, Okocha's nephew, along with Ahmed Musa, Kenneth Omeruo, and Francis Uzoho, shared warm embraces with the legendary figure. Additionally, a few members of the team's backroom staff had heartfelt moments with the iconic number 10.

Okocha, chosen as an ambassador for the tournament by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), is expected to be present for Nigeria's upcoming match against the host nation, Ivory Coast.

The Super Eagles are set to face Jean-Louis Gasset's team at the Stade Alassane Ouattara on January 18, aiming to secure their first victory in the competition.

Yaya Toure hails Okocha

Sports Brief in a previous report highlighted former Ivory Coast midfielder Yaya Toure has hailed Jay Jay Okocha in a recent interview.

The former Manchester City star was tasked in a quick-fire interview to create his ultimate African football player.

Toure included Samuel Eto'o's right foot, Kanga Akale's left foot, Bakare Koni's speed, Didier Drogba's strength, and Jay Jay Okocha's football intelligence. The 40-year-old further took the time to salute the Nigerian maestro.

Authors
Ero Samson photo
Ero Samson
Samson Ero is a sports journalist with a track record of over five years in the Nigerian media industry. He graduated from Nigerian Institute of Journalism (2021-2023).