Nigerian Football
“This is my Story”, says Nigeria’s ex-international Taye
Twenty years ago, Taye Taiwo, then 20-years-old, saw his career take a major turn: a signature at Olympique de Marseille, a continental title with Nigeria, and a FIFA U-20 World Cup where he won the Bronze Ball, behind Lionel Messi and his compatriot John Obi Mikel.
Before revealing himself to the world, it was on the African stage that the left-back laid the foundations of his rise, playing a key role in Nigeria’s triumph at the 2005 edition of the TotalEnergies U-20 Africa Cup of Nations.
This tournament remains a pivotal moment in his career. Alongside a golden generation led by John Obi Mikel, Isaac Promise, and Chinedu Obasi, Taiwo stood out with his physical power, powerful shots, and natural leadership.
Under Samson Siasia’s guidance, the Flying Eagles dominated the competition with flamboyant play and deadly efficiency.
In the final, they defeated Egypt 2-0, claiming their fifth continental title and securing their FIFA U20 World Cup in the Netherlands.
This African title was much more than just a victory for Taiwo.
For someone who had just joined Marseille, the 2005 U-20 AFCON edition was a foundational step, opening the way to the elite of world football, where he would shine by reaching the final of the World Cup.
In this interview, he shares his memories of this decisive period, the challenges he had to overcome and the influence of this title on the rest of his career.
CAFOnline: Twenty years ago, you played in the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations in Benin. What was your mindset before the tournament?
Taye Taiwo: With the team we had at the time, we worked really hard. It wasn’t easy, but we were fortunate to have an experienced coach, Sam Siasia, who had played at the highest level, winning the senior AFCON in 1994. Before heading to Benin, we gathered in Lagos to prepare.
There was great competition within the group: some players came, others left, but those who stayed formed a real family. It was this sense of cohesion that allowed us to go far in the competition.
What were the expectations surrounding the team before the tournament?
Taye Taiwo: Before we left for Benin, many Nigerians doubted us. Some thought we could win, others didn’t. But we believed in our potential.
We worked hard and had the unwavering support of our coach, who instilled a conquering mentality in us. When we arrived in Benin, we were determined to show our superiority on the field and go for the title.
Our ambition was clear: we were there to win.
In the first match, you scored the first goal for Nigeria against the host nation, Benin (3-0 victory). How did you experience that moment?
Taye Taiwo: It was an exceptional moment for me. Playing in a U-20 Africa Cup of Nations is an immense opportunity for a young player. These tournaments are an incredible showcase.
All of Africa is watching, and it’s a chance to be noticed. Scoring in the first match was a great pride. That’s when I realized how important it was to seize every moment on the field.
In your opinion, what was the strength of Nigeria in this competition?
Taye Taiwo: Our collective. We had talented players like John Obi Mikel, who was very strong in midfield. The team was well-balanced: we had solid defenders, midfielders who could hold the ball, and effective forwards. Everyone knew their role. We defended together, attacked together. It was this unity that allowed us to become African champions.
What does did the title mean to you?
Taye Taiwo: It was a dream come true. When I was a kid, I played barefoot in the streets of my neighbourhood, watching great players like Jay-Jay Okocha or Nwankwo Kanu on TV. I’ve always dreamed of wearing the national team’s jersey.
Winning this title was a crucial step in my career. I knew it was an opportunity I couldn’t miss, and I gave everything to make the most of it.
How did you celebrate the title?
Taye Taiwo: It was incredible! When we returned to Nigeria, we received a triumphant welcome. Thousands of people were waiting for us.
Even the president received us. We had a meal with him, and he congratulated us for our performance. Some players then signed contracts abroad, while others stayed in the country. It marked the beginning of a new chapter for each of us.
A few months later, you went to the U-20 World Cup in the Netherlands as African champions. What were your ambitions?
Taye Taiwo: We were highly motivated. The staff decided to keep the core of the team that had won the U-20 AFCON. We wanted to go as far as possible. Our coach warned us that the World Cup was a step up.
In Europe, the fields are different, the referees are stricter, and every mistake can cost you. We worked a lot on defensive discipline and analysed the videos of the opposing teams. We were ready for the challenge.
Your journey was impressive: victory against Ukraine (1-0) in the round of 16, against the Netherlands (1-1, 10-9 on penalties) in the quarter-finals, and Morocco (3-0) in the semi-finals. Then came the final against Argentina and a certain Lionel Messi.
Taye Taiwo: Yes, and what was crazy was that we shared the same hotel as the Argentinians.
We crossed paths with them at the restaurant, we observed them. We were ready for the final. Unfortunately, we conceded two penalties converted by Messi (2-1). He was already impressive at that age.
We gave it everything, but we lacked luck. Argentina was a very strong team, with players like Sergio Agüero. We were disappointed, but proud of our journey.
Looking back, what do you think about that year 2005?
Taye Taiwo: It was an unforgettable year. I signed with Olympique de Marseille, my first club, then I won the U-20 AFCON and reached the final of a World Cup. It’s something that very few players experience.
This team will always be special to me. The U-20 Africa Cup of Nations launched my career. I have incredible memories of it and a great sense of pride.
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The global economic power of football (soccer) is truly immense, standing as one of the world’s most influential and profitable industries. The beautiful game generates billions of dollars annually through revenue, employment, and global commerce.
Recent estimates, according to a new report from consultancy firm Kearney, revealed that the global sports market, encompassing professional leagues, broadcasting rights, sponsorships, betting, and merchandising will be worth US$602 billion by 2030.
According to FIFA, “The global football market is witnessing a dynamic evolution, characterized by increasing participation rates and a growing emphasis on youth development programs, which collectively enhance the sport’s accessibility and popularity across diverse demographics.”
Major leagues such as the English Premier League (EPL) generate between $6–7 billion annually, while the UEFA Champions League brings in billions of dollars through TV rights and commercial deals. The FIFA World Cup 2022 alone generated more than $7.5 billion in revenue according to the world football governing body.
Beyond revenues, the football industry has demonstrated an exceptional capacity to create jobs directly — through players, coaches, referees, and administrators — and indirectly across media, tourism, logistics, and security. Every major football club today drives local economies through matchday activities, merchandise sales, and hospitality services.
Television and digital broadcasting rights remain football’s biggest money spinners. The EPL’s broadcasting rights, for instance, are valued at over £10 billion per cycle, with networks such as SuperSport (Africa), Sky Sports (Europe), DAZN, Amazon, and ESPN paying premium sums for coverage.
Moreover, digital platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Meta are revolutionizing the way football content is monetized, expanding access and engagement for millions of fans globally.
Football’s commercial appeal continues to attract massive sponsorship deals. Global brands such as Nike, Adidas, Coca-Cola, and Emirates invest billions in the sport annually.
For example, Real Madrid’s sponsorship deal with Emirates exceeds $70 million per year, while Manchester United’s record-breaking Adidas kit deal — valued at $900 million (2024–2035) — underscores the immense commercial potential of football branding.
Football’s influence extends well beyond the pitch. The sport drives massive investments in stadium construction, transportation upgrades, and urban development.
Mega-events such as the World Cup, AFCON, and UEFA Euro attract millions of tourists, boosting host nations’ GDP through hospitality, retail, and tourism spending. For instance, Qatar 2022 contributed billions of dollars to its national GDP through infrastructure projects and global exposure.
In Nigeria, football continues to stimulate both national and local economies — creating opportunities in youth engagements (through academies and grassroots programs), media growth (sports journalism and broadcasting), and corporate investments (banks, telcos, and private sponsors of clubs and leagues).
The economic power of football is nearly unquantifiable. Football clubs today have evolved into major financial assets — some football clubs are publicly traded or backed by institutional investors.
Examples include Manchester United, listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), and Juventus, listed on the Borsa Italiana (BIT).
Similarly, in Nigeria, The Nigeria Football Fund (TNFF) — managed by GTI Group and regulated by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) — exemplifies how football can be harnessed as an investment vehicle to drive sports development, financial inclusion, and national growth.
Football is not just a game — it’s a global economic powerhouse shaping industries, nations, and generations.
In light of the above, it is evident that the private corporate organizations have a significant role to play in the development and sustenance of the Nigeria football ecosystem for mutual benefits.
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Rivers United head coach and technical manager, Finidi George, has praised young defender Ochiobi Elias following his outstanding performance in the club’s hard-fought 1-0 victory over Niger Tornadoes in a rescheduled Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) fixture on Wednesday at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium, Port Harcourt.
The left-back, who played the full 90 minutes, was instrumental in helping Rivers United maintain a clean sheet, marking one of his most confident outings since his promotion to the senior squad.
Finidi, visibly impressed after the match, revealed that his decision to give Elias a full game was driven by trust in the player’s potential, despite his limited minutes earlier in the season.
“I think he did well. Normally, we should have been bringing him in gradually — maybe 15 minutes before giving him a 90-minute match,” Finidi said. “But I trust him, and I’ve spoken to him. He should be relaxed, calm down, and play his football.”
The coach also highlighted a near-miss moment when Elias came close to scoring late in the game, a chance Finidi felt could have crowned his stellar performance.
“I think today he would have scored a goal at the last moment, but he still wanted to square the ball, look for somebody,” Finidi added. “I’m quite happy with his performance, and we will keep encouraging him to do better. I am very, very pleased.”
Elias, a product of the Rivers United youth team that won the NPFL Youth League in 2024, has been gradually integrated into the first team under Finidi’s guidance. His performance on Wednesday is seen as a major step forward in his development and a sign of his growing confidence.
The youngster is now expected to retain his place in the squad as Rivers United travel to Aba this Sunday for a crucial NPFL clash against Enyimba.
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Strategic partners of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) on the President Federation Cup, GTI Group, have congratulated the football governing body on the successful hosting of its Annual General Meeting (AGM) held last weekend in Ibadan, Oyo State.
In a press statement issued on Friday in Lagos, GTI’s Head of Media and Publicity, Andrew Ekejiuba, lauded the NFF Board under the leadership of Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau for the smooth conduct of the AGM and the significant progress made in Nigerian football development.
According to Ekejiuba, the Ibadan meeting reflected Gusau’s commitment to engaging stakeholders and strengthening unity across the football ecosystem.
“GTI Group congratulates the Nigeria Football Federation on the successful outcome of its Annual General Meeting held in Ibadan, which the President of NFF, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, used the occasion to demonstrate his commitment to engaging positively with football stakeholders, including state football associations, clubs and fans,” he said.
“His interactions with the various groups at the AGM showcased his impactful leadership and dedication to promoting Nigerian football and fostering a collaborative environment.”
Ekejiuba also highlighted the Super Falcons’ recent achievements and the growth of domestic competitions, particularly the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), as key milestones recorded under Gusau’s leadership. GTI serves as a strategic partner of the NPFL, supporting its structural and commercial transformation.
The statement further expressed appreciation to Governor Seyi Makinde and the people of Oyo State for their hospitality and support during the AGM. Ekejiuba noted the governor’s commendation of the improved standard of refereeing in the NPFL under the administration of Otunba Gbenga Elegbeleye.
However, GTI also used the opportunity to express disappointment over the early exit of Kwara United and Abia Warriors from the CAF Confederation Cup, urging Nigerian clubs to raise their competitive standards on the continental stage.
“It is unfortunate that both Kwara United and Abia Warriors crashed out at the preliminary phase of the CAF Confederation Cup last weekend. This clearly shows that Nigerian clubs must raise their game in order to compete favourably,” the statement read.
“The future remains bright, but that is why GTI has been calling on Corporate Nigeria to invest more in our football, just as is done in thriving leagues across the world.”
Ekejiuba also extended words of encouragement to Remo Stars and Rivers United, who are still flying Nigeria’s flag in the CAF Champions League.
“We encourage them to dig deep and remain focused to ensure successful campaigns. They should give Nigerian football fans something to cheer this season because we understand how demanding continental competitions can be,” he concluded.
GTI Group reaffirmed its continued commitment to working closely with the NFF to advance football development, promote professionalism, and attract sustainable investment into the Nigerian game.
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