Super Eagles legend Augustine “Jay-Jay” Okocha has been presented with a retrospective “Superior Player of the Match” award for his outstanding performance in Nigeria’s famous 3–2 win over Spain at the 1998 FIFA World Cup in France.
In a video shared on his Instagram page, the 52-year-old former midfielder unveiled the custom-designed silver trophy, expressing delight at the recognition.
“Hello, this is JJ Okocha. I’m about to unveil this special award being given to me by FIFA,” he said.
“It was given to me for winning the Superior Man of the Match in a World Cup game, Nigeria versus Spain 1998.
“Special thank you to Michelob ULTRA and Copa90 for this amazing recognition. I’m so honoured to receive it,” he added.
The recognition is part of a joint initiative by Michelob ULTRA and football media platform Copa90 aimed at honouring standout World Cup performances from past tournaments, before the official Player of the Match award was introduced in 2002. Organisers said they reviewed historic matches to identify deserving players.
Okocha was instrumental in Nigeria’s memorable comeback victory over Spain on June 13, 1998, at Stade de la Beaujoire in Nantes. Though he did not score, his dribbling skills, creativity, and control of the game repeatedly troubled the Spanish defence.
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Nigeria eventually won 3–2, with goals from Mutiu Adepoju, an own goal, and a long-range strike from Sunday Oliseh.
The result helped the Super Eagles finish top of their group, although they were later eliminated in the Round of 16 by Denmark.
The honour further reinforces Okocha’s legacy as one of Africa’s most gifted footballers and a global football icon.
The recognition comes as attention builds around the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup cycle, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, although Nigeria did not qualify for the tournament.