Godfrey Oboabona'S International Journey: A Look At His Match Appearances
When it comes to Nigerian football, one name that stands out is Godfrey Oboabona. This talented defender has not only made waves in club football but also left his mark on the international stage. Curious about his international journey? Buckle up as we dive into the Godfrey Oboabona international caps statistics, national team appearances history, and his overall performance with the Nigeria national team!
Who is Godfrey Oboabona?
Before we explore the nitty-gritty of his international appearances, let’s take a moment to understand who Godfrey Oboabona is. Born on October 16, 1990, in Nigeria, Oboabona has built a solid reputation as a dependable central defender. He began his professional career with Sunshine Stars before moving to clubs like Rizespor in Turkey and FC Ifeanyi Ubah in Nigeria.
Now, let’s kick off with the juicy details of his international career!
Godfrey Oboabona’s International Caps Statistics
What’s the scoop on Oboabona’s international caps? Here’s a breakdown of his total appearances for Nigeria:
- Total International Caps: 35 (as of October 2023)
- First Appearance: 2012
- Last Appearance: 2019
Oboabona made his debut for Nigeria on January 4, 2013, during a friendly against Cape Verde Islands. He quickly established himself as a key player, showcasing his skills in various international tournaments.
Performance Highlights
Let’s shine a spotlight on some of his standout moments:
- African Cup of Nations (AFCON): Oboabona was part of the squad that won the tournament in 2013. His defensive prowess was crucial in securing Nigeria's third AFCON title.
- FIFA World Cup: He represented Nigeria in the 2014 FIFA World Cup held in Brazil, marking a significant milestone in his career.
Godfrey Oboabona’s National Team Appearances History
So, how does Oboabona's journey look over the years? Here’s a year-by-year breakdown of his national team appearances history:
Yearly Breakdown
- 2013: 10 matches (AFCON Champion!)
- 2014: 5 matches (World Cup participation)
- 2015: 8 matches
- 2016: 6 matches
- 2017: 3 matches
- 2018: 2 matches
- 2019: 1 match
Key Matches to Remember
- 2013 AFCON Final: Oboabona played a crucial role in the final against Burkina Faso, helping Nigeria secure a 1-0 victory.
- 2014 World Cup Group Stage: He faced tough opponents like Argentina and Bosnia, showcasing his defensive resilience.
Godfrey Oboabona's International Match Performance
Now, let’s delve into the nitty-gritty of Oboabona’s international match performance. What did he bring to the pitch? Here’s what you need to know:
Defensive Skills
- Tackling: Oboabona is known for his excellent tackling abilities, often breaking up opposing plays.
- Aerial Duels: Standing tall at 1.85 m (6 ft 1 in), he’s a formidable presence during set-pieces.
- Passing Accuracy: His ability to distribute the ball effectively has helped Nigeria transition from defense to attack.
Notable Matches
- Against Argentina (2014 World Cup): Although Nigeria lost, Oboabona's performance was commendable, particularly in containing the Argentine attack.
- Against Cameroon (2015 AFCON Qualifiers): His solid performance contributed to a critical win for Nigeria.
Statistical Snapshot
| Year | Matches Played | Wins | Draws | Losses | Goals Conceded |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2013 | 10 | 7 | 1 | 2 | 5 |
| 2014 | 5 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 4 |
| 2015 | 8 | 4 | 2 | 2 | 6 |
| 2016 | 6 | 3 | 1 | 2 | 8 |
| 2017 | 3 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 2 |
| 2018 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 3 |
| 2019 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 1 |
This table gives you a clear view of how Oboabona’s contributions played out over the years.
Godfrey Oboabona's International Career Highlights
Let’s wrap this up with some international career highlights that define Godfrey Oboabona’s legacy:
- AFCON 2013 Champion: A crowning achievement that will forever be etched in Nigerian football history.
- World Cup Representation: Being part of the 2014 squad is a testament to his skills and hard work.
- Leadership Qualities: Oboabona has often been praised for his calm demeanor and leadership on the pitch, making him a valuable player for the national team.
Conclusion
Godfrey Oboabona’s international journey is a rollercoaster of achievements, dedication, and passion for football. With 35 international caps and a trophy-laden history, he has undoubtedly made his mark on Nigerian football. Whether it’s his impressive defensive skills or his contributions to Nigeria’s success on the pitch, Oboabona is a name that resonates with football fans.
So, what’s next for this talented defender? Only time will tell, but one thing's for sure—his legacy will inspire future generations of Nigerian footballers. Ready to follow in his footsteps? Keep your eyes on the field!
