Okocha Earns Special FIFA Honour For Iconic Spain Masterclass At France ’98

Super Eagles legend Augustine “Jay-Jay” Okocha has received a special “Superior Player of the Match” award in recognition of his outstanding display in Nigeria’s historic 3-2 victory over Spain at the 1998 FIFA World Cup in France.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Okocha unveiled the silver trophy in a video posted on his Instagram page on Thursday, June 11, where he opened a customised case containing the honour.

“Hello, this is Jay-Jay Okocha. I am about to unveil this special award given to me by FIFA,” the 52-year-old said.

“It was presented to me for winning the Man of the Match in the World Cup game between Nigeria and Spain in 1998.

“I want to thank Michelob ULTRA and Copa90 for this incredible recognition. I am truly honoured to receive it.”

The award is part of a joint initiative by Michelob ULTRA and Copa90 designed to honour exceptional World Cup performances from before the official Man of the Match award was introduced in 2002.

According to the organisers, historical match data and archival footage were reviewed to identify standout individual performances across past World Cup tournaments.

Okocha’s recognition comes nearly 30 years after one of the most iconic matches in Nigerian football history.

Nigeria entered the 1998 tournament as underdogs and were widely expected to struggle against a star-studded Spanish side featuring players such as Raúl González, Fernando Hierro, Luis Enrique, Fernando Morientes, Santiago Cañizares, and goalkeeper Andoni Zubizarreta.

The Super Eagles went into the match after a disappointing run of friendly results, having lost 1-0 to Germany, 3-0 to the former Yugoslavia, and 5-1 to the Netherlands.

However, they delivered a memorable performance in Nantes, inspired by Okocha’s creativity and control in midfield.

Spain initially went ahead through a Fernando Hierro free-kick, before Mutiu Adepoju equalised with a header from a Garba Lawal corner.

Raúl restored Spain’s lead early in the second half, but Nigeria responded when Garba Lawal’s cross forced an own goal from goalkeeper Andoni Zubizarreta.

With 12 minutes remaining, Sunday Oliseh completed the comeback with a stunning volley after a Spanish defender headed Okocha’s long throw into his path.

Throughout the match, Okocha dazzled with his skill, vision, and movement, tormenting the Spanish defence and playing a central role in Nigeria’s famous comeback victory.

The Super Eagles went on to reach the Round of 16, finishing alongside Paraguay, while Spain and Bulgaria exited the tournament at the group stage.