A Nigerian football legend who played for top clubs like Ajax and Borussia Dortmund, and later managed the Nigerian national team. He's known for his skills on the pitch and tactical prowess as a coach.
Sunday Oliseh is widely regarded as one of the best African midfielders of all time, renowned for his physical yet technically gifted playing style, which earned him a coveted spot in top European clubs like Ajax, Borussia Dortmund, and Juventus. With a remarkable career spanning over a decade, Oliseh has left an indelible mark on the football world.
Oliseh's impressive playing career saw him don the Nigerian national team jersey 63 times, scoring three goals and participating in the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cups. His most memorable moment came during the 1998 World Cup, where he scored the winning goal against Spain, securing a 3-2 victory for Nigeria.
In 1996, Oliseh was part of Nigeria's Olympic gold medal-winning team, a feat that highlighted his exceptional skills on the field. He was also voted Africa's third-best footballer in 1998 by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
After retiring from professional football in 2006, Oliseh embarked on a new journey as a coach. He began his coaching career in Belgium, working with youth teams in the Belgian 3rd Division, Verviers. He later graduated to the first team as chief coach during the 2008-2009 season.
In the 2014-2015 season, Oliseh was appointed as the Chief Coach and Club Manager of RCS VISE in Belgium's 3rd Division. His most notable managerial stint, however, came when he was appointed as the National Team Chief Coach of Nigeria by the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) in 2015.
Oliseh's impressive playing career and managerial skills have earned him several awards and honors. He was voted Africa's third-best footballer in 1998 and was part of Nigeria's Olympic gold medal-winning team in 1996.
In 2002, Oliseh retired from international football after being omitted from Nigeria's World Cup squad due to disciplinary reasons. He then demanded unpaid allowances and dues owed to him.
In 2004, Oliseh was sacked by Borussia Dortmund after a controversy involving teammate Vahid Hashemian, allegedly over racial remarks.
Sunday Oliseh's impact on the world of football is undeniable. His exceptional playing skills, dedication, and perseverance have inspired countless young African footballers. His legacy continues to be felt, and his name remains etched in the annals of football history.
As a testament to his enduring influence, Oliseh's name is often mentioned alongside other African football legends, solidifying his position as one of the greatest midfielders the continent has produced.
49 Years Old
A Nigerian professional footballer who won numerous titles with Arsenal and Portsmouth, and is revered for his exceptional skill and charity work.
55 Years Old
A skilled and pacey winger who played for top clubs like Ajax and Real Betis, and won the 1994 African Cup of Nations with Nigeria.
62 Years Old
Nigeria's all-time leading scorer, a prolific striker who netted 37 goals in 58 appearances, famously scoring the country's first World Cup goal in 1994.
43 Years Old
A Nigerian professional footballer who played as a goalkeeper, known for his impressive skills and achievements, including winning the African Footballer of the Year award.
