“I didn’t know I was the first”: Chinedu Obasi reflects on his unique record in Nigerian football

• Chinedu Obasi makes history as the first Nigerian to represent the country at three different age-group levels and the senior Super Eagles
• Obasi's standout performances at the 2003 U-17 World Cup, 2005 U-20 World Cup, 2008 Olympics, and 2010 World Cup cemented his legacy in Nigerian football
• Obasi reflects on his proud achievements in an exclusive interview, marking a groundbreaking feat in Nigerian football history

Former Hoffenheim striker Chinedu Obasi has confirmed a remarkable milestone in Nigerian football history, becoming the first player to represent the country’s national teams across three different age-group levels as well as the senior Super Eagles in FIFA, CAF, and International Olympic Committee (IOC) competitions.

Obasi first caught the attention of Nigerian football fans in 2003 during the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Finland, where he made three appearances under then-coach Augustine Eguavoen, playing a key role in the Golden Eaglets’ campaign. 

His performances at the youth level were a precursor to a glittering career that would see him compete on the world stage.

Following a strong showing at the 2005 FIFA U-20 World Cup, where he helped Nigeria secure the silver medal under the guidance of Samson Siasia, Obasi attracted interest from top European clubs including Manchester United, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Arsenal. 

Ultimately, he joined German side Hoffenheim, where he made a name for himself in European club football.

Obasi’s career continued to soar as he earned a spot in the Nigerian squad for the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing. 

It was here that he truly showcased his talent, scoring a memorable brace against Belgium in a match that saw him face off against stars like Vincent Kompany, Thomas Vermaelen, Marouane Fellaini, and Mousa Dembélé. His performance cemented his place in Nigerian football folklore.

In 2010, Obasi was called up to the senior national team for the Africa Cup of Nations and the FIFA World Cup. One of his most memorable contributions came in the World Cup in South Africa, where he won a penalty in Nigeria’s 2-2 draw with South Korea, a penalty later converted by Yakubu Aiyegbeni.

Reflecting on his historic achievements, Obasi spoke exclusively to Germany-based Nigerian journalist Oma Akatugba. 

He expressed his pride in representing Nigeria across multiple competitions: “I have served Nigeria, I was actually the first person to play for the U-17s in 2003, U-21s in 2005, Olympics in 2008, and World Cup and Africa Cup of Nations in 2010. The first Nigerian to go back-to-back, which I didn't even know. I was told by the media and I was like, really? I didn’t even know."

Obasi continued, sharing his pride in representing his country at the highest level: "With that being said, going through this process and going to the World Cup with Nigeria is a proud moment for me."

The former striker’s achievements set a new precedent, and his good friend, John Obi Mikel, followed in his footsteps. Mikel, a two-time World Cup player and 2016 Olympic Games captain, represented Nigeria at the 2003 FIFA U-17 World Cup and the 2005 FIFA U-20 World Cup before leading the Dream Team VI to the Olympics.

Taye Taiwo, Taribo West and other Super Eagles stars to have played for AC Milan

Previously, TheRadar compiled interesting facts about past and present Super Eagles players of AC Milan in detail. If you’re a fan of Nigerian football or AC Milan, this article is your goldmine! It dives deep into the journeys of four standout Super Eagles players who have donned the iconic red and black of the Rossoneri. 

From Taribo West's unique hairstyle and robust defending to Taye Taiwo's blistering left-foot strikes, all the way to Samuel Chukwueze's electric wing play, there’s so much history between Nigeria and AC Milan.