Of the many Nigerians who have graced England's shores, a select few have lifted the Community Shield, the traditional curtain-raiser to the English football season.
In this article, we look into the journeys of six Nigerians who have won this historic title.
Nwankwo Kanu
Nwankwo Kanu was the standout as Arsenal stunned Manchester United to lift the 1999 Charity Shield.
The Nigerian magician produced a masterclass, grabbing a penalty to cancel out Dwight Yorke's opener before setting up Ray Parlour for the winner. His performance was so dominant he walked away with the Man of the Match award.
With Nicolas Anelka out the door, the Gunners needed their big man to step up and he did just that. It was the perfect start to a season that would see Kanu fire in 12 Premier League goals.
John Mikel Obi
John Mikel Obi‘s trophy cabinet is a testament to his illustrious Chelsea career, boasting a collection of silverware that few can match.
While the Community Shield might be overshadowed by the club's Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, and Europa League triumphs, it still holds a special place in the Nigerian midfielder's heart.
Mikel Obi played a key role in Chelsea's 2009 Community Shield victory, helping his side to a 4-1 penalty shootout win over Manchester United after a 2-2 draw.
Wilfred Ndidi and Kelechi Iheanacho
Wilfred Ndidi was the defensive rock when Leicester City upset Premier League giants Manchester City in the Community Shield.
The Nigerian midfielder put in a tireless shift, breaking up play and most importantly making a crucial interception to deny Riyad Mahrez a clear sight of goal.
It was Kelechi Iheanacho, though, who stole the show. Introduced from the bench, the striker made an immediate impact, capitalizing on a Nathan Ake error to win and convert a late penalty that sealed a 1-0 victory for the Foxes.
Celestine Babayaro
Celestine Babayaro played a full part as Chelsea ended a 45-year wait for the Community Shield with a victory over Manchester United at Wembley in 2000.
The left-back was instrumental in a defensive performance that frustrated the Red Devils, securing only the Blues’ second Community Shield triumph. The win also continued United’s poor record in the competition, marking their third loss in a row after defeats in the two previous years at the hands of Arsenal.
Alex Iwobi
Alex Iwobi enjoyed a taste of Community Shield glory twice during his Arsenal career, lifting the trophy in both 2015 and 2017.
The latter victory, which followed the FA Cup triumph, proved to be his final silverware with the Gunners before his move to Everton.
