As the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup unfolds in the United States with top clubs battling for global supremacy, Nigerian talent continues to shine even in the absence of a Nigerian club among the 32 teams. Over the years, several Nigerian players have made their mark on the prestigious tournament, helping their clubs to podium finishes.
Here are five Nigerian stars who have won medals at previous editions of the FIFA Club World Cup:
John Obi Mikel (Chelsea – Runners-up, 2012)
John Obi Mikel was a vital part of Chelsea’s 2012 campaign, playing the full 90 minutes in their 3-1 semi-final victory over Mexico’s Monterrey. Although he didn’t feature in the final, where Chelsea were narrowly defeated 1-0 by Brazil’s Corinthians, Mikel still collected a silver medal. He retired from professional football in November 2022 after a highly successful career.
Victor Moses (Chelsea – Runners-up, 2012)
Victor Moses also contributed to Chelsea’s journey that year, appearing as a substitute in the semi-final and starting in the final. He was substituted in the 72nd minute during the loss to Corinthians. Moses most recently played for Luton Town and is set to depart the club this June following the expiration of his contract.
Odion Ighalo (Al Hilal – Runners-up, 2022)
Odion Ighalo played a central role in Al Hilal’s remarkable run to the final in 2022. He started in the wins over Wydad Casablanca (on penalties) and Flamengo, and made a substitute appearance in the final against Real Madrid, which ended in a 5-3 loss. Ighalo currently plays for Al Wehda in the Saudi Pro League.
Junior Ajayi (Al Ahly – Third Place, 2020)
Junior Ajayi earned a bronze medal with Egyptian giants Al Ahly in 2020. Although he didn’t play in the early rounds, he featured in the third-place match against Palmeiras, coming on in the second half. The game ended goalless and was decided by penalties, with Ajayi successfully converting his spot-kick to help Al Ahly secure a 3-2 shootout win.
Nwankwo Obiora (Inter Milan – Champions, 2010)
Former Super Eagles midfielder Nwankwo Obiora was part of the Inter Milan squad that won the Club World Cup in 2010. Though he didn’t get any minutes on the pitch, he was on the bench for both the semi-final and final. Inter Milan defeated South Korea’s Seongnam Ilhwa 3-0 in the semis and secured a similar 3-0 win over DR Congo’s TP Mazembe in the final. Obiora, now 33, currently plays for Académica in Portugal’s third division.
Advertisement
