Nigerian footballers in Ballon d’Or history: ranking the top performers
Nine Nigerians have been nominated for the prestigious Ballon d’Or since its inception. From historic individual accomplishments to leading their teams to major trophies, these players have made a significant impact on the global stage. Here’s a look at the highest-ranked Nigerian footballers in Ballon d’Or history, ranked from best to worst:
1. Victor Osimhen (2023) – 8th, 24 votes
Victor Osimhen made history in 2023 by achieving the highest finish ever by a Nigerian footballer in the Ballon d’Or rankings. Leading Napoli to their first Serie A title in 33 years, Osimhen also won the league’s golden boot with 26 goals and played a pivotal role in Napoli’s Champions League run, scoring five goals as they reached the quarterfinals.
2. Nwankwo Kanu (1996) – 11th, 14 votes
Kanu became the first Nigerian to receive multiple Ballon d’Or nominations, with his best finish coming in 1996. His brilliant performance at the Atlanta Olympics, where Nigeria won gold, and his contributions to Ajax’s UEFA Champions League final appearance that year earned him recognition.
3. Asisat Oshoala (2022) – 16th, 4 votes
Asisat Oshoala became the second Nigerian, and first woman, to receive two Ballon d’Or nominations. In 2022, she led Barcelona to the Primera División title, finishing as the league’s top scorer. Oshoala’s stellar season also included winning the Supercopa de España and Copa de la Reina.
4. Asisat Oshoala (2023) – 20th, 7 votes
Oshoala’s 2023 nomination followed another fantastic season with Barcelona, where she secured a historic treble: the Primera División, Copa de la Reina, and Supercopa de España. She also made a vital contribution at the 2023 Women’s World Cup, helping Nigeria reach the round of 16.
5. Finidi George (1995) – 21st, 6 votes
Finidi George became the first Nigerian to crack the top 30 in Ballon d’Or history. His role in Ajax Amsterdam’s dominant 1995 season, where they won the UEFA Champions League, Eredivisie, and other titles, earned him a well-deserved spot in the rankings.
6. Nwankwo Kanu (1999) – 23rd, 2 votes
Kanu’s second Ballon d’Or nomination came after his impressive move to Arsenal, where his performances earned him the CAF African Footballer of the Year and BBC African Footballer of the Year awards.
7. Victor Ikpeba (1997) – 32nd, 2 votes
Ikpeba, known as the “Prince of Monaco,” received a Ballon d’Or nomination in 1997 after leading AS Monaco to the French Ligue 1 title and finishing as the second-highest scorer in the UEFA Cup. His nomination cemented his legacy as one of Africa’s best forwards.
8. Sunday Oliseh (1998) – No vote
Despite not finishing in the top 30, Oliseh’s nomination in 1998 was a recognition of his stellar performances for Ajax Amsterdam and the Nigerian national team, particularly his stunning goal against Spain in the 1998 FIFA World Cup.
9. Daniel Amokachi (1995) – No vote
Amokachi’s nomination in 1995 followed his key role in Everton’s FA Cup triumph, where he famously substituted himself into the semifinal and scored two crucial goals. His performances for Nigeria and Everton earned him a place alongside Finidi and Okocha in the 1995 nominations.
10. Austin Jay-Jay Okocha (1995) – No vote
Okocha’s nomination came in 1995 after his mesmerizing performances for Eintracht Frankfurt in the Bundesliga. Known for his incredible skills and flair, Okocha’s nomination showcased his immense popularity and impact during his time in Germany.
