On this day: FIFA celebrate 30th anniversary of Super Eagles’ World Cup debut

World football’s governing body FIFA have celebrated the 30th anniversary of Nigeria’s debut at the World Cup in 1994, when the Super Eagles shocked tournament dark horses Bulgaria to start their campaign in flying form.

The Super Eagles made their first appearance at the FIFA World Cup in 1994, against a Bulgaria team brimming with talent. Although Nigeria were placed higher than their European opponents, the Super Eagles were still seen as underdogs until they hammered Bulgaria 3-0.

Goals from Rashidi Yekini, who scored Nigeria’s first-ever goal at the World Cup, as well as Daniel Amokachi, and Emmanuel Amunike, were enough for the Super Eagles to claim a convincing win against Bulgaria, announcing their arrival on the world stage.

On their official X account, FIFA paid homage to the enigmatic Super Eagles team from the 1994 World Cup, with a collage of pictures showing Yekini’s historic first goal and the Nigerian team, with the caption, “30 years ago today, the Super Eagles picked up their first #FIFAWorldCup victory.”

After the win against Bulgaria, Nigeria lost to Argentina before beating Greece to qualify for the second round of the World Cup.

A dramatic 2-1 loss in extra time against Italy in the round of 16 meant that Nigeria’s journey ended at that stage, but the quality the Super Eagles showed in their World Cup debut campaign still lives in the minds and hearts of fans of the game.