'He's ahead of Cafu, Marcelo, Ashley Cole' - Reactions pour in as UEFA celebrates Taribo West on his 50th birthday

Former Nigerian defender, Taribo West

Fans have taken to social media to shower encomiums on legendary Nigerian defender Taribo West who turned 50 on Tuesday, March 26 2024.

In an appreciation post, UEFA tweeted a picture of the former footballer-turned-pastor drawing praise from football fans who believe he was a better defender than some of the game's great defenders of the past including Cafu, Marcelo, Ashley Cole and John Terry.

Known for his strong defensive abilities, athleticism, and aerial prowess Taribo West is arguably one of the best defenders to have emerged from the African continent.

West played for clubs such as Inter Milan in Italy, where he won the UEFA Cup in 1998, and AC Milan for one season.

He also had stints with clubs in France, England, Germany, and Qatar.

On the international level, Taribo West represented the Super Eagles, earning 42 caps.

He played a crucial role in Nigeria's success during the late 1990s and early 2000s, including winning the gold medal at the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta.

He also represented Nigeria in multiple Africa Cup of Nations tournaments and FIFA World Cups.

Here are some reactions from fans who hailed the former Nigerian international on his golden jubilee.

_@aduola_michael said: Taribo West! The best defender from the African Continent. To some, he's placed ahead of the likes of Cafu, Marcelo and Ashley Cole.

_@FocuzIsaac: That's Taribo West. Good bless NIGERIA and God bless UEFA

_@blaze9330: My Kalabari brother Pastor Taribo West was a good defender in those days when he played in the Italian league with Inter Milan.

_@mountainboy24: TARIBO WEST. we love you. Now Pastor TARIBO West

_@GoziconC: Taribo West better than John Terry

_@iam_wilsons: We don't have defenders like Taribo West today.

_@Afcbanks__: His drip was far better than pogba's????????

_@_sirbalocomedy: The greatest of all time ????