At 51, Nigerian football legend Jay-Jay Okocha proved that class is indeed permanent as he graced the pitch in Mogadishu, Somalia, alongside fellow African icons Samuel Eto’o and Emmanuel Adebayor. The trio participated in a FIFA-backed exhibition match on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, aimed at promoting peace and restoring Somalia’s image on the international stage.
The match, held at the renovated Mogadishu Stadium, marked the first high-profile football event in Somalia in over three decades. Okocha’s mesmerizing footwork and signature flair captivated the crowd, evoking memories of his illustrious career.
READ ALSO: Taiwo Awoniyi Honoured as PFA Community Champion for 2024/25 Season
Fans were thrilled to witness the skills that once made him a global sensation, with many echoing the sentiment: “So good they named him twice.” The match ended 8-4 In favour of the Legends team that had Okocha, Adebayor and Eto’o.
Somalia’s Minister of Youth and Sports, Mohamed Abdulkadir Ali, expressed optimism that the event would pave the way for the country’s return to hosting international fixtures. The exhibition match is part of a broader initiative to showcase Somalia’s progress and potential in the realm of sports.
The presence of African football legends in Mogadishu not only provided entertainment but also served as a powerful symbol of unity and hope for a nation striving to rebuild through the universal language of football.
