Emeka Nweze
Super Eagles captain and AFCON winner John Obi Mikel has today announced his retirement from international football just hours after Nigeria claimed bronze at the 2019 AFCON.
Since his debut in 2005, Mikel has played in two FIFA World Cup tournaments and four Africa Cup of Nations, where he won the title in 2013 and a bronze medal in 2019.
As the 32-year-old midfielder calls time on his international career, here is a look at some of his achievements so far.
1. Silver ball at the 2005 World Youth Championship
At the 2005 FIFA World youth Championship, Mikel was awarded the silver ball (with Messi taking the Golden ball) having led Nigeria to the silver medal.
2. Two times CAF African Young Player of the Year
Mikel received the accolade consecutively in 2005 and 2006.
3. Nigeria senior team debut
On August 2005, John Obi Mikel made his senior team debut after coming on as a second half substitute in a 1- 0 friendly win against Libya.
4. Uefa Champions League winners medal
Won the UEFA Champions league with Chelsea during the 2011-2012 season, becoming only the third Nigerian to do so after Nwankwo Kanu and Finidi George.
5. 2013 AFCON gold
Mikel won the title with Nigeria at the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations and also earned a place in the team of the tournament alongside teammates Victor Moses, Vincent Enyeama, Efe Ambrose and Emmanuel Emenike.
6. Premier League titles
While at Chelsea, Mikel lifted the Premier League title twice in the 09/10 and 14/15 seasons.
7. Super Eagles Captain
The former Chelsea man was named new captain of the Nigerian National team in 2016 after being handed the honour by Ahmed Musa
8. Olympics football bronze medal
The former Nigerian skipper captained the Nigerian Olympic football team to bronze with a victory against Honduras at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games.
