Nigeria’s journey in the FIFA World Cup from 1994 to 2018 is a story of dazzling promise, close calls, and memorable moments. The Super Eagles have appeared on the world stage six times, with their first and most impactful run being in 1994.
USA 1994: The Golden Generation
The 1994 Super Eagles team is widely regarded as the best in the nation’s history. Playing in their first-ever World Cup, the team, led by players like Rashidi Yekini, Jay-Jay Okocha, and Sunday Oliseh, surprised the world. They topped their group, which included Argentina and Bulgaria, after an iconic 3-0 victory over Bulgaria where Rashidi Yekini scored Nigeria’s first-ever World Cup goal. Their run ended in a heartbreaking fashion in the Round of 16, where they led Italy 1-0 until the 88th minute before losing 2-1 in extra time to a Roberto Baggio-led side.
France 1998: The Magic Continues
Nigeria continued its strong performance in the 1998 World Cup. They were once again the surprise of the tournament, winning their first two games and topping their group ahead of a star-studded Spanish team. Their unforgettable 3-2 victory over Spain, featuring a stunning long-range goal from Sunday Oliseh, is still considered one of the greatest moments in Nigerian football history. The team’s journey came to an end in the Round of 16 with a 4-1 loss to Denmark.
2002 to 2018: A Mixed Bag
Nigeria’s subsequent World Cup campaigns saw a mix of results.
- 2002 (South Korea/Japan): The team was placed in a tough group with Argentina, Sweden, and England. They were unable to advance past the group stage, losing to Argentina and Sweden and drawing with England.
- 2010 (South Africa): The Super Eagles once again exited in the group stage after losing to Argentina and Greece and drawing with South Korea.
- 2014 (Brazil): Nigeria had a strong showing, securing a win against Bosnia and Herzegovina and a draw against Iran. They advanced to the Round of 16 but were eliminated by France in a 2-0 defeat.
- 2018 (Russia): In their most recent appearance, Nigeria had a memorable 2-0 victory over Iceland, with both goals scored by Ahmed Musa. However, a late goal from Argentina’s Marcos Rojo in the final group stage match sent them home, ending their World Cup run.
Across these six appearances, Ahmed Musa stands as Nigeria’s top World Cup goalscorer with four goals, all of which were scored in the 2014 and 2018 tournaments.
