With the emergence of Africa becoming a major force in football during the 1990’s, Nigeria ended up winning a major trophy, the 1996 Olympics. This highly deserved victory came as no surprise, because Nigeria had topped their group in the 1994 world cup finals and it was only a late Roberto Baggio goal for Italy in the second round which ultimately eliminated Nigeria out of the world cup. Nigeria repeated success the following world cup as they reached the quarter finals, en route to the last eight they enjoyed a great 3-2 victory over the mighty Spain.
The Nigerian football association was founded in the year 1945 and popularity in football has increased ever since.

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Nigeria’s potential was evident when they won the first ever under 17 world football championships in 1985, defeating West Germany 2-0 in the final. They won the tournament again in 1993 this time beating Ghana 2-1.
The 1996 olympics was Nigeria’s greatest ever triumph, in the semi finals they came from behind to defeat Brazil 4-3 after being 3-1 down. They were losing twice in the final to Argentina; however they eventually won the tie 3-2.
Nigeria have produced many great players, including, Celestine Babayaro, who is an attacking defender, who has played football for high profile clubs including Chelsea and Anderlecht. Nwankwo Kanu is another all time great of the Nigerian national side, he was an inspirational captain for his country, he was their leading goal scorer during the 1996 Olympic games, he was named African Footballer of the year 1996 and has played for top English clubs, including, Arsenal, West Bromwich Albion and Portsmouth.
Their most capped international player is, Peter Rafai, he earned 90 caps during his 14 year spell representing his nation.