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The date 22 March 1980, remains a historic day in Nigerian football. On that memorable evening in Lagos, the Green Eagles, as they were formerly called, lifted Nigeria’s first-ever Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) trophy, marking the beginning of a new football era for the country.
The Team led by the then Captain, Christian Chukwu and coached by Brazil’s Professor Otto Gloria (late), the Nigerian squad delivered a masterclass performance against Algeria in the final, securing a resounding 3-0 victory at the National Stadium in Surulere. It was a defining moment not just for the players but for the entire nation, as football became a unifying force, bringing immense joy to millions of Nigerians.
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Before 1980, Nigeria had never reached an AFCON final. The tournament, hosted on home soil, presented a golden opportunity for the Green Eagles to add their names in history. They took full advantage of it, displaying grit, determination, and skill throughout the competition.
Felix Owolabi’s crucial goal against Morocco in the semi-final sent Nigeria into the final match, setting the stage for a showdown with a strong Algerian side. On the night of the final, Nigeria dominated play from start to finish. Segun Odegbami, one of the tournament’s standout stars, scored twice, while Mudashiru Lawal sealed the victory with a third goal, sending the packed stadium into jubilation.
The victory handed Nigeria the ‘Unity Cup,’ a trophy donated by the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) as a replacement for the original AFCON trophy, which Ghana had won permanently after three victories.
Christian Chukwu, later voted the best player of the tournament, had the honor of becoming the first footballer to lift the new trophy, forever inscribing his name in Nigerian football folklore.
The impact of Nigeria’s 1980 AFCON triumph was far-reaching. It was the nation’s biggest football achievement at the time, inspiring future generations of players to pursue greatness. The win also paved the way for Nigeria’s football dominance in the years that followed, as the Super Eagles (formerly Green Eagles) went on to win two more AFCON titles in 1994 and 2013.
For Felix Owolabi who is in his late 60s being part of that historic team remains a source of immense pride. Reflecting on the milestone, he expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to Nigeria’s football legacy.
“Today is exactly 45 years since Nigeria won the Africa Cup of Nations for the first time. The National Team at that time, the ‘Green Eagles,’ made Nigeria proud,” Owolabi shared in a message.
“I am celebrating this day with special prayers because I belong to that historic team. Kindly help me thank God. 1980 became the real tonic for my football career as I was also an undergraduate at the University of Lagos at the time.”
He further emphasised the significance of the victory, noting that it captured the attention of the footballing world and created opportunities for future Nigerian players to thrive in professional football.
Sadly, 45 years on, some of the heroes of Nigeria’s 1980 AFCON-winning squad are no longer alive. Among those who have passed away are Best Ogedegbe, the goalkeeper, Mudashiru Lawal, Okey Isima, Tunde Bamidele, Aloysius Atuegbu, and Martin Eyo.
Coach Otto Gloria has also passed on, but his influence on Nigerian football remains significant.
With only 14 of the original 20 players still alive, their legacy endures as a testament to their dedication and contribution to Nigerian football history.
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The historic 22-man squad that brought Nigeria its first AFCON title included:
- Goalkeepers: Best Ogedegbe, Emmanuel Okala, Moses Effiong
- Defenders: David Adiele, Okey Isima, Christian Chukwu, Tunde Bamidele, Godwin Odiye, Sylvanus Okpala, Charles Bassey
- Midfielders: Muda Lawal, Ifeanyi Onyeadika, John Orlando, Felix Owolabi, Sheffiu Mohammed, Frank Onwuachi, Henry Nwosu
- Forwards: Segun Odegbami, Adokie Amiesimaka, Aloysius Atuegbu, Martins Eyo, Kadiri Ikhana
The victory of the Green Eagles in 1980 remains a landmark achievement in Nigerian football history. It showcased the unbreakable Nigerian spirit, one of resilience, teamwork, and excellence.
As the nation marks 45 years since that triumph, the memories of the 1980 heroes continue to serve as a source of inspiration for present and future generations. The never-say-die attitude that propelled them to glory is a reminder that with dedication and hard work, Nigerian football can continue to reach new heights.
Their legacy will never be forgotten.
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