Former Super Eagles captain Segun Odegbami has ranked Vincent Enyeama as Nigeria’s greatest goalkeeper, placing the former Lille star ahead of Emmanuel Okala and the late Best Ogedegbe.
Odegbami gave his opinion on the Play Zone Podcast after he was asked to choose between the three goalkeeping icons. Although he praised each of them, the 1980 Africa Cup of Nations winner said Enyeama’s understanding of the game made the difference.
“They are all great goalkeepers. None is perfect. Each one has their strengths and weaknesses,” Odegbami said.
He first spoke about Okala, saying the former Green Eagles goalkeeper unsettled opponents with his height and presence.
“Okala came at a time when there were no tall goalkeepers in the world. He was more intimidating than actually skilled in goalkeeping. When he was there, you were so afraid of him and you lost your position.”
Odegbami then turned to Ogedegbe and praised his ability with the ball.
“But when it comes to a goalkeeper who is a player, that’s Best Ogedegbe. He could have played for the national team as a centre-forward. He was that good.”
He eventually picked Enyeama because of his calm approach and ability to read matches before danger developed.
“Vincent read the game during his time, so he didn’t need to do all the flying. He was very calculative and very intelligent. When he was there, you were confident.
“They are all good, but I will give it to Vincent.”
Enyeama represented Nigeria 101 times between 2002 and 2015. During that period, he featured at three FIFA World Cups and helped the Super Eagles win the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations in South Africa.
