From Okocha to Osimhen: Nigerians celebrate over 25 years of Super Eagles stars winning Turkish hearts

Jay Jay Okocha and Victor Osimhen are some of the Nigerians to have played in Turkey.

From Okocha to Osimhen: Nigerians celebrate over 25 years of Super Eagles stars winning Turkish hearts

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 10:52 - 04.04.2025

Nigerians continue to react to Victor Osimhen's performance at Galatasaray, comparing him to Nigerian legend Austin Okocha and Daniel Amokachi's time in Turkey.

For over 25 years, Nigerian football stars like Austine Jay Jay Okocha, Daniel Amokachi and Victor Osimhen have captured the hearts of Turkish fans, creating a legacy that continues to thrive. 

From Okocha’s dazzling displays for Fenerbahçe in the late 1990s to Amokachi’s powerhouse performances at Beşiktaş, Nigerian players have left an indelible mark on Turkish football. 

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Now, Osimhen is carrying the torch, delivering match-winning performances for the giants Galatasaray that evoke memories of his legendary predecessors.

Osimhen’s recent heroics for Galatasaray in the Turkish Super Cup clash against Fenerbahçe have reignited conversations about Nigeria’s footballing influence in Turkey. 

Victor Osimhen joins the Nigerian legends in Turkey.

The Super Eagles striker netted a stunning brace, leading Galatasaray to a crucial victory and further solidifying his status as a fan favourite.

Osimhen scored two goals in the first half, including a stunning opener in the 10th minute to inspire the Lions to the decisive win against their bitter rivals Fenerbahce, who initially cancelled the Nigerian’s opener. 

Jay Jay Okocha playing for Fenerbahce

This performance from the 26-year-old has drawn parallels to Okocha’s mesmerising skills and Amokachi’s dominance during their time in Turkey. 

Okocha, who played for Fenerbahçe between 1996 and 1998, became a household name with his flair and creativity. 

Nigerian goal machine Victor Osimhen | Credit: Imago

Amokachi followed suit at Beşiktaş from 1996 to 1999, earning admiration for his strength and goal-scoring prowess. 

Decades later, Osimhen is building on this legacy, with Galatasaray fans chanting his name and Turkish supporters associating Nigeria with football greatness.

Daniel Amokachi at Besiktas

The impact of Nigerian players in Turkey extends beyond the pitch. Fans across Istanbul and other cities often express their admiration for Nigerian stars when meeting Nigerians. 

As a Nigerian shared on X, formerly Twitter, “The good thing about this Osimhen performance in Turkish league is, 20 years from now, Nigerians will continue to 'reap’ from it in Turkey. We never chop that of Okocha and Amokachi finish.” 

Hattrick hero - Victor Osimhen signed off for the international break in style.

Another noted: “I live in Istanbul, and every time I say I’m Nigerian, people shout ‘Osimhen!’ It’s amazing how much they love him here.”

A third Nigerian added; “It’s very true. I live in Istanbul, and anytime they ask me (Nerelisin?) and I say Nigeria, they start hugging you and shouting: Osimen! Have you seen Osimen before? I used to tell them that he is a rich guy who can’t just be seen anywhere except on TV.”

Emenike during his Fenerbahce days.

Osimhen’s prolific form since joining Galatasaray on loan from Napoli has been nothing short of remarkable. 

With 28 goals and five assists in 32 appearances across competitions this season, he has become a key figure in Galatasaray’s title push. 

Nwakaeme celebrates Trabzonspor's Super Lig success. (Photo Credit: Imago)

His performances have also sparked discussions about securing his services permanently when his loan expires next summer.

After a brilliant stint at Rams Park, Osimhen has joined the ranks of Nigerian superstars who have left their mark on Turkish football, including Emmanuel Emenike and Anthony Nwakaeme. 

These players have not only contributed to their clubs’ successes but also strengthened cultural ties between Nigeria and Turkey.

From Okocha’s artistry to Osimhen’s clinical finishing, Nigerians have spent decades winning Turkish hearts, and with Osimhen leading the charge, this legacy shows no signs of fading anytime soon.