On the 14th of November 2009, the Super Eagles of Nigeria needed a saviour to get them a ticket to the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa – the first on African soil after they found themselves one point behind the Carthage Eagles of Tunisia who had 10 points going into the final match of the qualifying series.
The Super Eagles needed an outright win against the Harambee Stars of Kenyan at the Kasarani Stadium with the hope that Mozambique will defeat or take a point off Tunisia in Maputo.
In a keenly contested match, Obafemi Martins otherwise known as Obagol became Super Eagles’ saviour in Nairobi as his brace and Yakubu Aiyegbeni’s goal secured a 3-2 win for the team.
See video 👇
His second goal, an acrobatic effort which secured the victory remains one of the best he scored for the team in his 11-year career. Aside from scoring goals, he also has a trademark celebration style – multiple backflips.
Obafemi Martins was born on this day 36 years ago in the city of Lagos and he remains one of the most prolific strikers to ever play for the Super Eagles with 18 goals in 42 matches.
Hearty Cheers Obagol!!