By Daily Sports Nigeria on September 26, 2025
Grammy Award-winning Nigerian afrobeats superstar, Damini Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy, has snubbed Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi from his list of football’s greatest players, instead naming Austin Okocha and Victor Osimhen alongside Brazil’s Ronaldinho as his all-time favourites, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
The ‘African Giant’ made the surprising selection during an appearance on GOAT Talk, a YouTube series by Complex where celebrities debate the best and worst of various topics.
When asked to name his three football Greatest of All Time, Burna Boy listed former Nigeria captain Okocha, Ronaldinho, and current Super Eagles Osimhen.
The choice has raised eyebrows, given that Messi and Ronaldo have dominated world football for nearly two decades, sharing 13 Ballon d’Or titles between them.
He was on the show with tennis icon Roger Federer, and the conversation took a light-hearted turn when Federer asked about Nigeria’s national team name.
“The Super Eagles,” Burna Boy replied, prompting a playful response from Federer, “Can they fly?”
“They can’t fly, but they can win some games… and lose some too,” Burna Boy responded with a laugh.Federer shared his own GOAT list, naming Zinedine Zidane, Thierry Henry, Diego Maradona, Lionel Messi, and Cristiano Ronaldo.
While Burna Boy’s selection of Okocha appears rooted in national pride, the former Paris Saint-Germain midfielder was widely regarded as one of Africa’s most skilful players during his career.
Ronaldinho, known for his creativity, tricks, and joyful approach to the game, remains a global favourite even in retirement. The Brazilian played alongside Okocha at PSG during their careers.
At 26, Victor Osimhen has become Nigeria’s poster boy in European football after winning the African Player of the Year award and earning a 2023 Ballon d’Or nomination. The Galatasaray striker, on loan from Napoli, remains central to Nigeria’s World Cup qualification hopes.
Source Punch Ng
Posted September 26, 2025
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