Nigerian Olympian Edose Ibadin goes viral for resembling former Arsenal star Alexandre Lacazette

A Nigerian athlete competing at the Paris 2024 Olympics has become a social media sensation due to his striking resemblance to former Arsenal star Alexandre Lacazette.

Edose Ibadin, who is set to represent Nigeria in the 800m track event, has drawn attention for looking remarkably like the French forward.

Lacazette, who is now the captain of France’s U23 team competing in the football tournament at the Games, has also been making headlines.

Social media erupted when a picture of Ibadin racing was shared online. Ligue 1 fans jokingly commented, “No matter the sport, Lacazette is fighting for medals all the way!”

The 31-year-old Ibadin has made history by becoming Nigeria’s first 800m runner at the Olympics since the 1988 Seoul Games.

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This has been a dream he has pursued for twelve years. He secured his spot by achieving a remarkable time of 1:44.65 on July 30, 2023.

Meanwhile, Alexandre Lacazette is aiming to lead France’s U23 team to gold in the football tournament. He has been featured in all their matches, including a tough 3-1 win over Egypt in the semi-finals.

The resemblance between Ibadin and Lacazette is so striking that some social media users have been amused. One commenter wrote on X (formerly Twitter), “But look at him being mad cause he has to wear green.”

Another added, “Lacazette from IBADAN in Nigeria?” and a third person joked, “No chance this one stays up long.”

Both athletes have quickly become viral sensations as their pictures continue to circulate on social media.