Denmark probably isn’t the first place that comes to mind when you think about Nigerian football stars making waves in Europe. However, the Danish Super League has been a good hunting ground for some of Nigeria’s most underrated stars over the years.
While some of the names on this list may not ring any bells, a few others at different points in history have managed to make it to the biggest stages, showcasing their talent across Europe’s top five leagues.
From the countless number of Nigerian talents that have plied their trades in Denmark, Footynaija.com brings you the top ten greatest goalscorers.
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10. Frank Onyeka – FC Midtjylland (7 goals)
Onyeka may not have been a goal machine, but don’t let the numbers fool you, his impact was massive. Joining Midtjylland in 2016, Onyeka started in the youth ranks before breaking into the first team in 2018. A midfield dynamo, he was the engine that powered Midtjylland to two Danish Superliga titles in 2018 and 2020.
In 61 appearances, Onyeka netted 7 goals, all from midfield. His defensive work, pressing ability and knack for joining the attack earned him a big move to the Premier League with Brentford. While goals weren’t his calling card, Onyeka remains a cult hero in Denmark for his work rate and consistency.
9. Christian Muomaife – Viborg FF (8 goals)
Next up is Muomaife, who may not be a household name, but Viborg fans will never forget him. He joined Viborg FF in 2006 and spent four seasons in Denmark. A strong and technical forward, Muomaife bagged 8 goals in 36 appearances, which is a decent return for a player often deployed as a target man.
Though he didn’t win major trophies, his ability to hold up play and bring teammates into the game made him an important figure for Viborg. After Denmark, he had stints in Sweden and Thailand, but his Viborg days remain his most memorable.
8. Uche Okechukwu – Brondby IF (9 goals)
Dubbed “The Gentle Giant” by fans, Okechukwu was a rock at the back for Brondby between 1990 and 1994. While his primary job was shutting down strikers, he still managed to chip in with 9 goals in 61 games.
He helped Brondby win two Danish league titles (1990, 1991) and established himself as one of the best foreign defenders in Denmark. His leadership at the back and ability to score from set pieces made him a fan favourite before he moved to Turkey for an even bigger career.
7. Stephen Odey – Randers FC (10 goals)
When Odey signed for Randers in 2021, expectations were high and he delivered. The former FC Zurich and Genk striker brought pace, energy and goals to the Danish league, scoring 10 times in 75 games for Randers. While Odey didn’t pick up any silverware, his work rate and pressing game made him a constant threat in the D. Randers fans loved his hustle and ability to pop up with crucial goals.
6. Baba Collins – FC Midtjylland, Aalborg BK (13 goals)
Collins had spells at Aalborg and Midtjylland, racking up 13 goals in 71 appearances. His best run came at the latter, where he was part of a vibrant attacking team that consistently challenged for the top spots. His versatility enabled him to play across the front line and made him a valuable squad player.
5. Jude Nworuh – AC Horsens, FC Midtjylland (14 goals)
Nworuh’s time in Denmark saw him represent Midtjylland and AC Horsens. At Midtjylland, he developed as a young forward before moving to Horsens for more game time. Across both stints, he scored 14 goals in 96 appearances.
Nworuh was known for his electric pace and ability to stretch defenses. While he never hit the 20-goal mark, his consistency and effort made him a reliable option for both clubs.
4. Rilwan Hassan – FC Midtjylland, Sonderjysk (21 goals)
If longevity was the name of the game, Hassan would be number one. With 262 games and 21 goals, Hassan spent over a decade in Denmark, mostly at Midtjylland, where he was a key part of their rise to the top. He won three Danish league titles and was part of Midtjylland’s historic 2014/2015 title-winning side. Later, he moved to Sonderjysk, where he continued to showcase his experience.
3. Paul Onuachu – FC Midtjylland (39 goals)
The towering striker joined Midtjylland in 2012 as a teenager and developed into a goal machine. Across 112 appearances, Onuachu smashed 39 goals and won three Danish titles (2015, 2018, 2020). His aerial dominance, physical presence and eye for goal made him unplayable at times. Onuachu’s performances earned him a move to Genk in Belgium, where he enjoyed an even better goalscoring record.
2. Sylvester “Sly” Igboun – FC Midtjylland (41 goals)
Sly Igboun was all flair, pace and clinical finishing during his time at Midtjylland (2010–2015). In 147 appearances, he netted 41 goals and was instrumental in the club’s 2014/2015 league title win which was their first ever.
Igboun’s ability to play both as a striker and winger gave Midtjylland tactical flexibility, and his spectacular goals made him a fan favourite at the MCH Arena. After Denmark, he moved to Russia but remains one of the most celebrated Nigerians in the Superliga.
1. Peter Utaka – Odense Boldklub (52 goals)
Utaka joined Odense Boldklub (OB) in 2008 and absolutely tore the Danish Super League apart, scoring 52 goals in 108 appearances. He wasn’t just about goals though, he had technique, vision and an eye for spectacular strikes.
Utaka won the Danish Super League’s Golden Boot in 2010 and helped OB qualify for European competitions. His lethal finishing and consistency cemented his place as a proper Nigerian legend in Denmark.
