But I Won Hearts everywhere- Jay Jay Okocha.
By- Oma Akatugba
In a candid conversation during a Bundesliga media event for African journalists, Nigerian football legend Augustine *Jay-Jay” Okocha opened up about the current state of the Super Eagles, Nigeria’s shaky World Cup qualification journey, and how he views his football legacy.
With the national team’s World Cup hopes hanging by a thread, Okocha admitted it’s difficult to understand why things haven’t clicked — especially considering how many Nigerian players are now thriving in Europe.
“It’s tough to explain. Most of our players are regulars at their clubs. They’re committed, but somehow, it’s not coming together for the national team.”
He pointed to a lack of ruthlessness in front of goal as a key issue:
“We create chances, but we don’t finish them. That, I think, is our biggest problem. If we had scored even half of those chances, we’d be in a different position right now.”
Still, Okocha remains optimistic.
“We’re not out yet. We know how Nigerians are — when it gets tough, we find a way. If we win our remaining matches, we still have a chance.”
Addressing long-standing debates about his legacy and comparisons with other Nigerian stars, Okocha delivered a heartfelt reflection on what truly matters.
“Some say I didn’t win major trophies at club level. Maybe I didn’t. But I gave everything — and more than anything, I won hearts. That means more to me than any cup.”
He continued:
“I don’t compare myself to anyone. I know how far I came. I’m grateful for what football gave me. No regrets. I’m proud.”
Despite his immense impact on African football, Okocha was never crowned African Footballer of the Year — something many fans still find hard to believe. Asked if he thought that was unfair, he responded honestly:
“Oh definitely. At some point, I thought I did enough to have won it. But at the end of the day, I had to take it on the chin and say, maybe that’s life. You can’t have it all — maybe it just wasn’t meant to be.”
Still, he admits the disappointment lingers.
“Yeah, I thought I deserved it at least once. When you look at the list and see some of the people who won it during my time, then you’ll agree — it was unfair.”
During his time at Paris Saint-Germain, Okocha had the chance to bond with a young Ronaldinho, who arrived at the club as a 20-year-old from Brazil.
“I was already settled at PSG when he came. He was just starting out in Europe, so I tried to be like a big brother — encouraged him, helped him settle. His talent was obvious, but adjusting takes time. I’m glad I played a small role in his journey.”
Nigeria’s path to the 2026 World Cup remains uncertain, with crucial fixtures ahead — particularly a must-win showdown against group leaders South Africa.
“If we want to qualify, we must win games like that. It won’t be easy, but we have to believe. That’s what great teams do.”