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Ahmed Musa, one of Nigeria’s most celebrated footballers, has announced his retirement from international football, bringing to a close a remarkable 15-year career with the Super Eagles.
The 33-year-old forward, widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most decorated modern internationals, made the announcement in a heartfelt statement, reflecting on his journey and the immense pride of representing his country on the global stage.
Musa’s career with the national team began when he was just a young boy, balancing call-ups to the U-20, U-23, and senior teams simultaneously.
“I was young, still learning, and always travelling, but I never complained. Whenever Nigeria called, I showed up. It was never something I had to think twice about,” he recalled.
His dedication, discipline, and passion for wearing the green and white jersey became defining traits throughout his career.
Over his 15 years with the Super Eagles, Musa achieved an impressive 111 caps, a record that makes him Nigeria’s most capped player in history.
“Playing 111 matches for my country is something I hold with deep respect. To become the most capped player in the history of Nigerian football is a great honour.
Every time I wore the jersey, I understood the responsibility that came with it,” Musa said. His commitment on and off the pitch earned him widespread respect and admiration from fans, teammates, and football pundits alike.
Musa’s international career is studded with historic moments. He was part of the squad that won the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations, a victory he described as one of the highlights of his career.
At the FIFA World Cup, he etched his name into history by becoming the first Nigerian to score more than once in a single match, netting against Argentina in 2014.
He later became the first Nigerian to score in two different World Cups, scoring twice against Iceland in 2018. In total, Musa scored four goals on football’s biggest stage, making him Nigeria’s highest World Cup goalscorer—a record he holds with pride.
Reflecting on his decision to retire, Musa expressed a deep sense of peace and gratitude. “As I step away from international football, I do so with peace and gratitude.
I know I gave my best. I know the Super Eagles will continue to move forward. And I know that this bond will never be broken.
Once an Eagle, always an Eagle. Thank you, Nigeria. Thank you for everything,” he said, highlighting the unbreakable connection he feels with his nation and the team he served for over a decade.
Ahmed Musa’s retirement marks the end of an era for Nigerian football, but his legacy will continue to inspire the next generation of players.
His journey from a young, ambitious boy to a record-breaking international footballer reflects the values of dedication, resilience, and patriotism.
Beyond the goals and appearances, Musa leaves behind a blueprint for aspiring footballers: passion, consistency, and pride in representing one’s country are key to achieving greatness on and off the pitch.
As fans bid farewell to one of Nigeria’s greatest football exports, the Super Eagles will look ahead, drawing strength from the foundation laid by Musa and other legendary players who have contributed to the nation’s rich football history.
His achievements will be remembered not only for the records but also for the inspiration he provides to every young Nigerian dreaming of football stardom.
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