Nigerian footballer Asisat Oshoala ranks 9th in ESPN's list of the 25 best African athletes of the 21st century. Oshoala's remarkable career with FC Barcelona and the Nigerian national team highlights her significant impact on African women's football.
ESPN recently unveiled its ranking of the 25 best African athletes of the 21st century, and Nigerian footballer Asisat Oshoala secured the 9th spot on this prestigious list. The selection process was a formidable task, given the diverse and remarkable talents across Africa. The ranking aimed to highlight athletes whose careers peaked from 2000 onward, encompassing various sports and disciplines.
Asisat Oshoala, who currently plays for Bay FC in the NWSL, has made significant strides in African women's football. Her inclusion in the top 10 reflects her exceptional contributions to the sport. Oshoala, a record six-time African Women's Footballer of the Year, has excelled with FC Barcelona, winning the Spanish Primera Division four times and the UEFA Women’s Champions League thrice.
Her prolific goal-scoring record includes 92 league goals for Barcelona, where she was a formidable presence on the field. For the Nigerian national team, the Super Falcons, Oshoala has helped secure three African titles and is gearing up for the Paris 2024 Olympics.
The list also features other notable athletes such as Kenenisa Bekele, Eliud Kipchoge, and Samuel Eto'o, each celebrated for their outstanding achievements. Bekele's dominance in long-distance running and Kipchoge's marathon feats highlight the breadth of African athletic excellence.
Eto'o's football legacy, marked by multiple UEFA Champions League titles, further underscores the diverse talents recognized.
Overall, ESPN's ranking underscores Africa's rich sports heritage and the exceptional achievements of its athletes in the global arena. Oshoala's high placement serves as a testament to her impact and the growing recognition of African athletes on the world stage.
