How ‘useless’ team went on to be Olympic champions – Ikpeba

Victor Ikpeba has recounted how Nigeria made history by becoming the first African country to win Olympic Gold after they were described as “useless”.

“Our preparations before arriving in the United States weren’t particularly good. We lost to Togo in Lagos, and our supporters kept on saying we were useless,” Ikpeba told FIFA.com

“We landed in Tallahassee in Florida, where we faced some logistical problems. It wasn’t easy, but we kept believing thanks to the fact that we had a squad filled with top players like Jay‑Jay Okocha, Nwankwo Kanu and Taribo West.

“I’d say that we only started to think about winning after our semi‑final victory over a Brazil side featuring the likes of Bebeto, Roberto Carlos, Ronaldo and Rivaldo. We were 3‑1 down in that match, but managed to draw level at 3‑3 before going on to win 4‑3 in extra time.

“God was on our side.”

The 1997 CAF African Player of the Year said winning Olympic Gold was a remarkable achievement.

“It was a truly unforgettable tournament. I was thrilled to take part in it, represent Nigeria and, in particular, to emerge victorious,” he said.

“When I look back on it, I realise just what an amazing achievement it was.

“We went on an extraordinary run by beating Mexico 2‑0 in the quarter‑finals, Brazil 4‑3 in the semis and Argentina 3‑2 in the final.

“I can picture myself 28 years ago with that gold medal dangling around my neck. I was ever so proud of that feat and to be a member of the very first African side to be crowned Olympic champions.”