- Sunday Oliseh had described Stephen Keshi as Nigeria’s first true football superstar
- He had praised Keshi’s discipline, leadership, and international impact during his playing career
- Keshi had been celebrated for balancing European club football with major national team duties
Former Super Eagles midfielder, Sunday Oliseh, had described the late Nigerian football icon Stephen Keshi as the country’s first genuine superstar, praising his leadership qualities, professionalism, and lasting influence on Nigerian football.
Speaking on Global Football Insights, Oliseh reflected on Keshi’s remarkable career both at club and international level, noting that his impact extended far beyond his achievements on the pitch. He emphasised that Keshi’s discipline and winning mentality had set him apart as a natural leader among his peers.
Keshi, who enjoyed a distinguished playing career across Nigeria and Europe, had featured for clubs including ACB and New Nigerian Bank in Nigeria, as well as Stade d’Abidjan, Africa Sports, Lokeren, Anderlecht, and Strasbourg. One of his most notable achievements came when he became the first Nigerian footballer to play in a major UEFA club competition final, featuring in the 1990 European Cup Winners’ Cup final for Anderlecht against Sampdoria.
On the international stage, Keshi had represented Nigeria at multiple Africa Cup of Nations tournaments, including the 1984 and 1988 finals. He was also part of the victorious 1994 Super Eagles squad, although he did not feature in the final match.
Oliseh praised Keshi’s leadership by example, recalling his strict professionalism and commitment to both club and country. He noted that Keshi often balanced international duty with club responsibilities in Europe, demonstrating his importance to Nigerian football during his era.
“He led by example. If they said everyone had to wear a green shirt, he would wear a green shirt. He was disciplined, and that was the kind of person he was; he was a winner,” Oliseh said.
He further described Keshi as a player who openly prioritised his career responsibilities while remaining deeply committed to the national team. According to him, Keshi’s presence alone elevated Nigeria’s profile in international football.
Oliseh added that Keshi’s ability to fly in from Belgium to represent Nigeria in major tournaments before returning to club duties underscored his exceptional status at the time.
“That was how significant his personality was, and Nigeria was supporting it; otherwise, you wouldn’t have your best player participating,” he said.