The Dutch Eredivisie has long been a proving ground for talent from around the world and Nigeria is no exception, Footynaija.com reports
Over the years, several Super Eagles stars have mesmerized fans in the Netherlands with their pace, technical ability and eye for goal. From trailblazers in the 90s to modern heroes, these players didn’t just feature in the Eredivisie, they left a lasting legacy.
In this piece, we bring you a ranking of the top five Nigerian players to have graced the Dutch top flight division.
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5. Finidi George (Ajax Amsterdam)
Finidi joined Ajax in 1993 and became a key part of Louis van Gaal’s legendary side. The winger’s speed, precise crossing, and eye for goal helped Ajax dominate domestically and in Europe. In three seasons, Finidi scored 18 league goals and provided countless assists, helping the club to three Eredivisie titles and the 1995 UEFA Champions League crown. His eagle-wing celebration remains one of the most iconic images of Ajax’s 90s success.
4. Bartholomew Ogbeche (Cambuur, Willem II)
Ogbeche may not have lifted trophies in the Netherlands, but he earned respect as a reliable goalscorer for Cambuur and Willem II. Arriving in 2014, Ogbeche quickly became Cambuur’s top scorer, helping the club fight off relegation. He later brought his experience to Willem II, netting consistently across both stints. With 36 goals in 60 Eredivisie appearances, Ogbeche proved himself as a dependable striker in the Dutch top flight.
3. Cyriel Dessers (FC Utrecht, Heracles Almelo, Feyenoord)
Dessers’ Eredivisie journey showcased his evolution into one of Nigeria’s most clinical forwards. After a solid stint at FC Utrecht, he truly exploded at Heracles Almelo, finishing as joint-top scorer in the 19/20 season with 15 goals. A loan move to Feyenoord saw him become a fan favourite, thanks to his key role in their run to the 2022 UEFA Europa Conference League final. His sharp finishing and work rate made him stand out in the Netherlands.
2. Nwankwo Kanu (Ajax Amsterdam)
Before conquering England and Europe, Kanu made his European breakthrough with Ajax. Joining in 1993, the tall and technically gifted striker scored 25 league goals in 54 appearances. He helped Ajax to three Eredivisie titles and played his part in their 1995 Champions League triumph. Kanu’s intelligence and calmness in front of goal made him an invaluable asset in a team brimming with stars, and his success in Amsterdam set the stage for a glittering career.
1. Tijani Babangida (Roda JC, VVV Venlo, Ajax, Vitesse)
At the top of this list is Babangida, whose blazing pace and longevity in the Eredivisie make him Nigeria’s finest export to the league. Babangida starred for Roda JC and VVV Venlo before joining Ajax, where he helped the club win the Eredivisie title in 97/98 and the KNVB Cup. Later spells at Vitesse added to his Eredivisie legacy. With over 170 appearances and 40 goals, Babangida’s impact was felt across multiple Dutch clubs, making him a true legend of Nigerian football in the Netherlands.
