Jay-Jay Okocha, Godwin Okpara, other Super Eagles star to have played for PSG

• TheRadar highlights the careers of three Super Eagles players who have represented Paris Saint-German (PSG)
• We take an extensive look into how these players made notable impacts during their time at PSG and beyond from Okocha’s brilliance in midfield to Godwin Okpara’s tough defensive effort
• While their careers had its ups and downs, they are remembered for both their on-field performances and their personal stories

The legacy of Nigerian footballers at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) is rich with iconic talent, memorable performances, and lasting influence on the international stage. From the dazzling moves of Augustine “Jay-Jay” Okocha to the defensive prowess of Godwin Okpara, each Super Eagles star brought a unique spark to the “Saints.” 

This article highlights their journeys, successes, and unforgettable moments, encapsulating the essence of Nigerian talent in the French capital.

Facts about Super Eagles stars who have played for the “Saints”

TheRadar has compiled in detail interesting facts about past Super Eagles players of the PSG club:

Augustine Jay- Jay Okocha



In the mid-90s, a generation of African footballers took the world by storm, but few players matched the flair and creativity of Augustine “Jay-Jay” Okocha. 

Known for his dazzling skill set and unpredictable moves, Jay-Jay transformed the pitch into his canvas, painting memorable scenes that remain etched in fans’ minds. Born in Enugu, Nigeria, and inspired by his brother James, from whom he got his iconic nickname, Jay-Jay honed his skills with a makeshift ball on the streets. Little did he know that he would one day be celebrated as one of Africa’s greatest football icons.

Okocha’s career journey began with an incidence of fate, after playing with Enugu Rangers, he embarked on a holiday trip to West Germany following the 1990 World Cup. During a training session with Borussia Neunkirchen, Okocha’s talent shone so brightly that the club immediately signed him, marking the start of his European career. 

Just two years later, he signed with Eintracht Frankfurt, bringing his dribbling technique to the Bundesliga. In 1993, he earned the German Goal of the Year title for a spectacular goal against Oliver Kahn’s Karlsruher SC, a feat that soared his reputation as a player capable of creating moments of brilliance.

After impressing in Germany, Okocha joined Turkish side Fenerbahçe in 1996, where he perfected his free-kick technique. In two seasons, he scored 30 goals in 62 appearances, captivating fans with his trademark set-pieces. By the time Paris Saint-Germain made him Africa's most expensive footballer in 1998 with a £14 million transfer, Okocha’s reputation had spread far beyond Turkey. At PSG, he continued to wow fans, netting 20 goals in 113 appearances and creating magic alongside then-future stars like Ronaldinho.

In 2002, Okocha moved to the English Premier League, signing with Bolton Wanderers, where he quickly became a fan favourite. Fans wore shirts bearing the phrase “Jay-Jay – so good they named him twice.” Known for his jaw-dropping skill on the ball, he was often credited with keeping Bolton in the top flight, even leading them to the 2004 League Cup final as team captain. His legacy at Bolton was etched into Premier League history, with fans still reminiscing about his ability to turn a game around single-handedly.

Internationally, Okocha was equally revered. Making his debut for Nigeria in 1993, he helped the Super Eagles qualify for their first World Cup with a stunning free-kick against Algeria. Nigeria went on to win the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations and made a strong showing at the World Cup in the United States. 

In 1996, Okocha helped Nigeria win an Olympic gold medal in Atlanta, introducing the world to the "Dream Team" era of Nigerian football. Over his 13-year international career, he amassed 14 goals in 73 caps, leaving an indelible mark as captain and a national hero.

Despite his international success, Jay-Jay never sought the spotlight. His humility and dedication made him a true ambassador for African football. Recognised as one of the best African players ever, he was included in Pelé's 2004 FIFA 100 list, an honour reserved for the greatest living footballers. 

In Nigeria, his legacy is celebrated through awards and even a stadium named in his honour. His influence continues through his nephew, Fulham and Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi, who carries forward the Okocha legacy.

Okocha’s skill was a combination of juggling, stepovers, rapid turns, and instinctive brilliance. He wasn’t just playing football; he was creating a show, making fans hold their breath as he danced around defenders. As one of the architects of creativity in modern football, his style and influence are both timeless and unforgettable. 

Fans around the world cherish the memory of a player who could make the ball do anything he wanted, a player “so good, they named him twice.”

Jay-Jay Okocha will forever be remembered as one of Africa’s greatest footballers and one of the game’s most skilful entertainers. In the annals of football history, his legacy remains a beacon of artistry, joy, and pure magic.

Godwin Okpara

Godwin Okpara, born on September 20, 1972, in Imo State, Nigeria, is remembered as a talented defender whose early career suggested greatness. Rising from Nigeria’s footballing ranks, he played in the 1989 U-17 World Championship, catching the attention of Pelé, who praised him as a future world-class player. 

Starting with AGIP FC in Lagos, he eventually moved to Belgium in 1989, signing with Beerschot before moving to Eendracht Aalst, where he won the Belgian Ebony Shoe, awarded to the best African player in the Belgian League.

His career saw him sign with major French clubs, including RC Strasbourg, where he won the 1997 Coupe de la Ligue, and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) where he played 21 matches in total. However, his second season with PSG was challenging, prompting a return to Belgium to finish his career at Standard Liège.

Tragically, Okpara's post-career life has been marked by controversy. In 2005, he was arrested in France on charges of raping his 13-year-old adopted daughter. He was sentenced to 13 years in prison, later reduced to seven upon appeal, while his wife, Linda, received a 15-year sentence for abuse of the same girl. Okpara faced additional allegations in 2017, this time for allegedly battering his wife of 25 years.

While his footballing legacy remains, his off-field actions cast a shadow on a career that once promised so much.

Bartholomew Ogbeche

From his early days in France to becoming an Indian Super League legend, Bartholomew Ogbeche’s career spans continents, leagues, and remarkable milestones. Born on October 1, 1984, in Ogoja, Nigeria, Ogbeche launched his career at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) as a teenager, quickly becoming a promising talent. 

Although injuries and loans to French clubs Bastia and Metz limited his time at PSG, Ogbeche left a lasting impression in Ligue 1. Notably, he scored in Bastia’s decisive 4–1 victory against Olympique de Marseille, securing the team’s spot in Ligue 1.

After France, Ogbeche continued his football journey across diverse clubs and leagues. He made brief stops in the UAE before finding stability in Spain with Alavés in the Segunda División, then at Real Valladolid. 

His first La Liga game, a tight 1–0 win against Espanyol, marked his presence, even with limited playtime. A one-year stint with Cádiz in Spain’s second division followed, where he finished as the club's top scorer, despite the team facing relegation.

In 2011, Ogbeche transitioned to England, joining Middlesbrough in the Championship. A memorable moment came against Cardiff City, where he netted his first goal, contributing to a thrilling 3–2 victory. He continued to impress fans by lobbing a final goal in a 2–0 win over Barnsley.

Ogbeche’s football adventures took him next to the Netherlands, where he joined SC Cambuur in the Eredivisie, delivering an impressive debut performance with a goal and an assist in their 3–1 win against Heerenveen. 

In 2018, his journey led him to the Indian Super League (ISL), where he joined NorthEast United, scoring in his first game and quickly becoming a key figure in the league. Ogbeche then joined Hyderabad FC, where he made history by becoming the ISL's all-time top scorer with 49 goals after a brace against NorthEast United in January 2022. That season, Ogbeche not only topped the goal charts but also helped Hyderabad to its first-ever ISL championship. His success on the Indian pitch made him an undeniable icon and a trailblazer for Nigerian players in international leagues.

Internationally, Ogbeche debuted for Nigeria at just 17, representing his country in the 2002 FIFA World Cup. Though Nigeria exited in the group stage, he played two matches, embodying hope for the Super Eagles’ future. In a 2004 friendly against Ireland, Ogbeche scored two of his three international goals in a 3–0 victory, leaving a mark on the global stage. Ogbeche's career stands out not just for his goal-scoring abilities but also for his adaptability across different football cultures. 

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

Previously, TheRadar reported that it 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.