Ahmed Musa’s decision to retire from international football has brought the curtain down on one of the most significant Super Eagles careers of the modern era.
After nearly 15 years in green and white, Nigeria’s most capped player has stepped away, leaving behind a legacy built on longevity, leadership, and moments that defined major tournaments.
Speaking to Bet9ja following the announcement, former African Footballer of the Year Victor Ikpeba paid tribute to Musa’s contribution, describing his career as one that will be remembered long after his final appearance.
“Musa is truly one of the greats of Nigerian football,” Ikpeba said. “It’s not a fluke to score goals in back-to-back World Cups, which no other Nigerian has ever done.”
Cash prizes everywhere this ????? ????????! ?
— Bet9ja: The home of #betBOOM! ? (@Bet9jaOfficial) December 19, 2025
Five lucky winners will each walk away with ?500,000.
Don’t miss out! Enter now.
A Career Built on Consistency
Musa’s international journey began in 2010 when he made his debut for Nigeria at just 17 years old. From that moment, availability became one of his defining traits. Across different generations, managers, and tournament cycles, Musa answered the call whenever the Super Eagles needed him.
Ikpeba highlighted that commitment as central to Musa’s status in Nigerian football history.
“A long-standing player for the national team and, absolutely not only a good human being but a great player,” Ikpeba said. “After all he has more appearances than any other player for Nigeria.”
Those appearances eventually totalled 111, a national record that places Musa above some of the most durable and trusted figures the Super Eagles have ever had. Beyond the numbers, he captained the side, won the Africa Cup of Nations in 2013, and carried responsibility during periods of transition for the team.
Leadership Beyond the Pitch
Even as his playing time reduced in later years, Musa’s influence remained. His recent role has only reinforced the idea that football has always been more than just a profession for him.
“Look at what he’s doing at Kano Pillars, his passion for football has always been something I admire,” Ikpeba added. “He may be hanging up his boots for the Super Eagles, but I want to see personally that, I’m sure he’s still going to be part of football.”
That sense of continuity matters as the Super Eagles move into a new cycle. With Musa and William Troost-Ekong both stepping away from international duty, Nigeria now faces a clear transition in leadership, one that Musa’s retirement finally allows to happen formally.
World Cup Goals That Defined an Era
While Musa’s career spans AFCON triumphs, captaincy, and record appearances, his most enduring moments on the global stage came at the FIFA World Cup. Goals against Iceland in and his famous brace against Argentina in 2014 etched his name into tournament history, making him Nigeria’s highest goalscorer at World Cup finals.
