The Super Eagles icon has been retired since 2008, but he reminded many of his greatness during the friendly encounter
Austin Okocha mesmerized Brazilian legend Ronaldinho and captivated the crowd with an exceptional goal during ‘The Beautiful Game’ Charity match, Soccernet.ng reports.
The spectacle unfolded on Friday during a star-studded exhibition match, where past and present stars united at Orlando City’s Exploria Stadium, all in the name of raising funds for charity.
Representing Team Ronaldinho in their clash against Team Roberto Carlos, Okocha stole the spotlight with his moment of brilliance.
Alongside illustrious names like Colombian icon Carlos Valderrama, former Brazilian stars Ronaldo, Rivaldo, and Dida, as well as current talents Vinicius Junior and Paulo Dybala, the charity gig promised excitement from the start.
In a game aptly titled ‘The Beautiful Game,’ Okocha showcased his timeless magic, with the opening goal.
Seizing a loose ball inside the penalty area, the 49-year-old maestro unleashed a mesmerizing array of tricks, including his signature roll and stepover, effortlessly evading his marker.
With sheer finesse, he danced past another defender and cleverly chipped the ball over the goal line, leaving spectators breathless.
Jay Jay Okocha deleted an elderly man from the pitch with his trademark ™️ dribble! This is the reason Ronaldinho has more respect and admiration for him. pic.twitter.com/nAZOz5b1CW
— Sancho’s Cousin (@iam_java) June 25, 2023
The goal not only left Ronaldinho beaming with joy but also prompted the Brazilian legend to embrace Okocha with a heartfelt hug. Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior also joined in the celebration, acknowledging the Nigerian hero’s extraordinary feat. This heartwarming moment was a testament to Okocha’s ageless genius and left spectators in awe.
Recognised as one of Africa’s greatest football players, Okocha amassed 73 caps for the Nigeria national team from 1993 to 2006, netting 14 goals.
He proudly represented his country in three FIFA World Cup squads and earned a winner’s medal from the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations.
Over his illustrious career spanning nearly two decades, Okocha showcased his exceptional skills at clubs like Borussia Neunkirchen, Eintracht Frankfurt, PSG, and Bolton Wanderers, etching his name in football history.
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