Ahmed Musa, one of the most influential players in Nigerian football history, recently revealed his all-time best XI of Super Eagles players he has played alongside.
The lineup, announced during an interview with journalist Modo Victor, highlighted Musa’s preferences for players from different eras of his illustrious national team career. However, the list has sparked debate among fans and analysts, as some notable names were excluded.
Musa, who debuted for Nigeria in 2010, has seen it all—winning the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), playing in multiple World Cups (2014 and 2018), and earning 110 caps for the national team. Despite his deep experience and unique perspective, a closer look at his XI raises questions about some of his selections.
Musa’s all-time XI
Here’s Musa’s XI in a 4-4-2 formation:
Goalkeeper: Vincent Enyeama
Defenders: Shehu Abdullahi, Joseph Yobo, Kenneth Omeruo, Taye Taiwo
Midfielders: Dickson Etuhu, Mikel Obi
Wingers: Osaze Odemwingie, Victor Moses
Strikers: Obafemi Martins, Emmanuel Emenike
Musa named the late Stephen Keshi as the manager who brought the best out of this group, describing Keshi as the most disciplined coach he ever worked with.
Critiquing Musa’s XI
While Musa’s selection highlights some of Nigeria’s finest players, a few glaring omissions have left room for debate. Let’s look at those who should have made the team and why.
Victor Osimhen over Obafemi Martins
Given the limited time he played alongside Musa, Obafemi Martins' inclusion is surprising. During their overlap, Martins made five appearances, scoring just one goal and assisting once.
In contrast, Victor Osimhen has played 17 games with Musa, scoring an impressive 11 goals and registering seven assists. His influence on the Super Eagles has been monumental, particularly in their qualification campaigns and recent AFCON outings. Based on both chemistry and productivity,
Osimhen’s exclusion seems odd, as he has clearly been one of Musa’s best teammates.
Ola Aina over Shehu Abdullahi
Shehu Abdullahi’s selection appears to have been influenced more by personal relationships than on-field performances. Musa openly admitted, “That’s a big one, I have to put my best friend there,” when naming Shehu in the XI.
However, from a footballing perspective, Ola Aina edges out Shehu in terms of quality and contribution.
Shehu and Musa played 27 games together, including Nigeria’s third-place finish at AFCON 2019.
On the other hand, Aina has shared the pitch with Musa 22 times, featuring prominently in the 2019, 2021, and 2023 AFCON tournaments, where Nigeria finished third, reached the Round of 16, and finished as runners-up, respectively.
Aina’s technical ability, versatility, and consistent performances make him a more deserving candidate.
Wilfred Ndidi over Dickson Etuhu
Perhaps the most contentious inclusion is Dickson Etuhu in midfield. Musa and Etuhu only played two games together, making his selection puzzling. Wilfred Ndidi, who has played 32 matches alongside Musa, is undoubtedly a better fit for the team.
Ndidi has established himself as one of the game’s top defensive midfielders, excelling for both club and country.
His ability to break up opposition play, dominate the midfield, and contribute to attacking transitions makes him a superior choice. Musa’s decision to overlook Ndidi in favor of Etuhu raises questions about the criteria used for his selection.
