The debate rages on among Nigerian football fans: who is the greatest No. 7 to ever don the Super Eagles jersey? From the early 1980s to the present day, numerous talented players have worn the iconic number, each leaving their mark on the national team. Now, the discussion has intensified, with fans and experts alike weighing in on who deserves the coveted title. The contenders are many, but two names consistently rise to the top: Finidi George and Segun Odegbami.

Finidi George, the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) winner and UEFA Champions League victor with Ajax in 1995, has emerged as a popular choice among Nigerian fans. His achievements at both club and international level have solidified his place in Nigerian football lore. Segun Odegbami, a 1980 AFCON champion and the nation's third-highest all-time goal scorer, also garners significant support. The veteran's achievements in a different era of Nigerian football make him a strong contender.

Adding fuel to the fire are the more recent contributions of players like Ahmed Musa and Ademola Lookman. Musa, Nigeria's most capped player and the only Nigerian to score a brace in two different World Cup tournaments, has undoubtedly left a lasting impression. Lookman, the reigning CAF Player of the Year, lifted the UEFA Europa League trophy and played a pivotal role in Nigeria's journey to the 2023 AFCON final. Despite their accomplishments, many fans still consider Finidi and Odegbami to be in a league of their own.

A recent poll on X (formerly Twitter) revealed that Finidi George is the preferred No. 7, edging out Odegbami, Musa, John Utaka, and Lookman. Finidi's success with Ajax, where he dominated the Dutch league and conquered Europe, is a major factor in his popularity. Known for his pinpoint crosses, dazzling dribbling skills, and blistering speed, Finidi remains an iconic figure for Nigerian football enthusiasts.

However, some fans argue that Odegbami's achievements are often overlooked due to the limited availability of match footage from his era. As one X user pointed out, Finidi George stands out due to his accomplishments at both club and international level. Another fan emphasized that Segun Odegbami might be underappreciated simply because matches from his era weren't as widely available to the public as they are today.

Veteran journalist China Ikwerreman Acheru shared his insights on the Finidi-Odegbami debate, highlighting the differences in their playing styles. While Odegbami was a more clinical goal scorer who could play in multiple attacking positions, Finidi was more reserved in attacking positions, often providing more goal assists. Acheru also noted that Odegbami was faster, while Finidi initially started as a central midfielder before transitioning to a winger.

The debate surrounding Nigeria's greatest No. 7 is a testament to the rich history and passionate fanbase of Nigerian football. While opinions may differ, it's clear that Finidi George and Segun Odegbami have left an indelible mark on the Super Eagles and continue to inspire generations of Nigerian footballers.