The Dream Team: Who were the key figures in Nigeria's 1996 Atlanta Olympics winning team?

Nigeria's U-23 soccer team at the 1996 Summer Olympic Games in Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America will forever be in the hearts of Nigerians for their unprecedented achievement.

Famously called the Dream Team, Nigeria produced a remarkable performance at the 1996 tournament by winning the Olympic gold medal.

Nigeria made history by becoming the first African and non-European and South American team to achieve this feat.

The team was led by Dutchman Johannes Bonfrere and assisted by Nigeria’s Musa Abdulahi.

In this article, we will take a look at the contribution of some notable names in the Dream Team toward the astonishing feat nearly 27 years ago.

Jay-Jay Okocha

Okocha was a key member of the Atlanta 96 squad. The former Super Eagles legend is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers and dribblers from the African continent.

Nwankwo Kanu

Nwankwo Kanu was pivotal in Nigeria's triumph during the 1996 Summer Olympics.

Kanu was the captain of the Dream Team. He came into the 96 Olympics after winning the Champions League with Ajax.

His brilliance and technique helped Nigeria to edge out Brazil in the semi-final stage as he scored twice to propel Nigeria to the finals.

Sunday Oliseh

The former Ajax and Borussia Dortmund defensive midfielder was a key member of the historic Nigerian team.

Oliseh was 21 years during the 96 Summer Olympics. He was then plying his trade in Germany for FC Köln.

Taribo West

Fondly remembered for his colourful hairstyle during his playing days. West was a pillar in defence during the Olympics in 1996.

The former Inter Milan and AC Milan defender played every single minute of the tournament.

Emmanuel Amunike

Amunike played in every single game at the tournament.

The former winger was the hero in the grand finale after scoring the winner against Argentina in a remarkable 3-2 win.


Victor Ikpeba

Victor Ikpeba's contribution to the 1996 success cannot be overlooked, he began the comeback against Brazil in the semi-finals with a superb low strike.

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