Iwobi hopes to emulate Okocha by clinching AFCON trophy in first attempt

Back In The Day: Austin 'Jay Jay' Okocha in action for Nigeria - Getty

Forward Alex Iwobi wants to match Austin 'Jay Jay' Okocha by winning the Africa Cup of Nations with the Super Eagles at his first attempt.


Okocha was part of the winning Super Eagles team in 1994 at his maiden appearance at the AFCON finals.

Iwobi, 24, was born in Lagos to Okocha’s sister and moved to the UK at the age of 4.

The Arsenal winger is expected to play a key role for Nigeria at the 2019 AFCON finals this summer in Egypt which will be his first appearance.

Iwobi told BBCSport: “I’ve seen some of his highlights from 1994 and it would be cool to achieve that as well."

“I’m excited, I have always dreamt of participating and representing my country at the Africa Cup of Nations, but it won’t be easy for us in Egypt

“Both dreams are coming true, hopefully I can get to play in Egypt.”

Nigeria is drawn in Group B of the 2019 Africa Cup Of Nations (AFCON) alongside First-timers Burundi, Madagascar and Guinea.