Drogba, Weah, Okocha or Eto'o? Brazil legend Zico names his greatest African footballer

Brazilian football icon Arthur Antunes Coimbra, popularly known as Zico, has named former Super Eagles captain Austin 'Jay-Jay' Okocha as his best African player of all time.

Zico made the revelation during an appearance on The Obi One Podcast hosted by ex-Nigerian international John Obi Mikel on Thursday.

Speaking with admiration, the Brazilian legend described Okocha as a 'fantastic player' whose creativity and flair made him stand out among his peers.

When asked to name the best African footballer he has ever seen, Zico told Mikel and Chris McHardy in Rio de Janeiro: "I like Okocha — a fantastic player. Number 10, Okocha. Eto'o, fantastic. George Weah, Drogba."

Zico, regarded as one of football's most gifted playmakers, also reaffirmed his belief that his compatriot Pelé remains the greatest footballer of all time, ranking him above Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.

Okocha, known for his dazzling dribbles, flair, and football intelligence, captivated fans across the world during his career, including at Bolton Wanderers in the English Premier League.

Despite never winning the African Footballer of the Year award, the Nigerian remains one of the continent's most beloved footballers due to his skill sets.

The 52-year-old midfielder represented Nigeria 73 times, scoring 14 goals. He was instrumental in Nigeria's triumph at the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations and also helped the Dream Team win gold at the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games.

Okocha's impact on the pitch continues to inspire generations of African footballers, and Zico's endorsement further cements his legendary status in world football.

Adeyemi Adewale

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