Nigeria erupted in jubilation on March 22, 1980, when the national team defeated Algeria 3-0 at the National Stadium in Surulere, Lagos. This victory secured Nigeria's first-ever Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title, a moment that transcended football to unite the nation, uplift spirits, and establish Nigerian football on the African stage. The Green Eagles, as the team was then known, were instantly elevated to national hero status. However, more than four decades later, nine of the 22 players from that historic squad have passed away, including Christian Chukwu and Charles Bassey, who died within hours of each other. As Nigeria commemorates their legacy, we reflect on the lives and careers of these remarkable men who proudly wore the green jersey.

The Fallen Nine

1. Christian Chukwu – The Captain

   Died: April 2025

   Known as “Chairman,” Christian Chukwu was the team’s captain and a defensive stalwart. He later coached the Super Eagles, leading them to a bronze medal at the 2004 AFCON. He passed away in Enugu at the age of 74. President Bola Tinubu lauded him as “a symbol of excellence and patriotism,” and his former teammates remembered him for his exceptional leadership and humility.

2. Charles Bassey – The Energetic Forward

   Died: April 2025

   Charles Bassey passed away in his hometown of Eket, Akwa Ibom, shortly after Chukwu's death. A vital member of the team's attack, he later coached several clubs, including Akwa United and Wikki Tourists. He died at 71 after a prolonged illness.

3. Best Ogedegbe – The Goalkeeper

   Died: September 2009

   Best Ogedegbe was Nigeria’s starting goalkeeper during the 1980 final. He died at the age of 55 due to complications from eye surgery.

4. Moses Effiong – The Reserve Keeper

   Died: January 2025

   Moses Effiong, also a goalkeeper in the 1980 squad, died in the United States following a long battle with illness. He was the goalkeeper coach for Akwa United Football Club, contributing to their FA Cup victories in 2015 and 2017, as well as their NPFL title in 2021.

5. Okey Isima – The Dependable Defender

   Died: February 2013

   Okey Isima was a strong and reliable defender who also played professionally in Portugal. He passed away in an Abuja hospital after a brief illness at the age of 56. Isima also represented Nigeria at the 1980 Olympics in Moscow.

6. Tunde Bamidele – The Quiet Guardian

   Died: October 1997

   Tunde Bamidele, a determined defender nicknamed “Rock of Gibraltar,” died at the young age of 44. His death, though not widely publicized, marked the loss of a key figure in Nigerian football history.

7. Aloysius Atuegbu – The Midfield Powerhouse

   Died: May 2008

   Aloysius Atuegbu, known as “Blockbuster” for his powerful shots, was a crucial midfielder for the Green Eagles. After retiring, he coached, including a stint with the Nigeria under-17 national team. At the time of his death at 55, following a brief illness, he was coaching Keffi United FC.

8. Mudashiru Lawal – Iconic Midfield Maestro

   Died: July 1991

   Mudashiru “Muda” Lawal, a midfield maestro, represented Nigeria in five AFCON tournaments—a national record. Beloved for his energy and skill, he tragically died at the young age of 37, just months after retiring. The Ashero Stadium in his hometown of Abeokuta was named in his honor.

9. Martins Eyo – The Silent Attacker

   Died: March 2002

   Martins Eyo may not have been the most famous player, but he played an essential role in the team. His widow, Mary Eyo, revealed that he was killed by armed robbers on March 11, 2002. He was 46 years old.

An Unforgotten Legacy

Like their teammates, these nine men dedicated their strength, skill, and passion to Nigeria. They secured the nation's first major football title and inspired future generations. Some became coaches and mentors, while others lived quietly after retirement, yet each left an indelible mark. While the remaining members of the 1980 AFCON-winning squad continue to share their stories, the memory of these fallen heroes must endure.

The 1980 AFCON-Winning Squad

• Coach: Otto Glória (Brazil)
• Players:
  1. Best Ogedegbe (GK, Shooting Stars)
  2. David Adiele (DF, Bendel Insurance)
  3. Okey Isima (DF, Standard of Jos)
  4. Muda Lawal (MF, Shooting Stars)
  5. Christian Chukwu (DF, Enugu Rangers)
  6. Tunde Bamidele (DF, Taraba United)
  7. Segun Odegbami (MF, Shooting Stars)
  8. Aloysius Atuegbu (FW, Enugu Rangers)
  9. Felix Owolabi (MF, Shooting Stars)
  10. Godwin Odiye (MF, San Francisco Dons)
  11. Adokiye Amiesimaka (FW, Enugu Rangers)
  12. Moses Effiong (GK, Shooting Stars)
  13. Emmanuel Okala (GK, Enugu Rangers)
  14. Sylvanus Okpala (DF, Enugu Rangers)
  15. Ifeanyi Onyedika (MF, Enugu Rangers)
  16. Martin Eyo (FW, Julius Berger FC)
  17. John Orlando (DF, Shooting Stars)
  18. Shefiu Mohamed (FW, Racca Rovers)
  19. Charles Bassey (FW)
  20. Henry Nwosu (MF, New Nigeria Bank)
  21. Franck Onwuachi (FW)
  22. Kadiri Ikhana (DF)