Ahmed Musa became the first Nigerian player to score more than once in a single FIFA World Cup match, netting two goals against Argentina during the 2014 tournament. This feat established him as a consistent threat on the international stage, where he later became Nigeria's most capped player, surpassing 110 appearances by late 2021.
Early Career and Nigerian Breakthrough
Born in Jos in 1992, Musa began his development at the GBS Football Academy. In 2008, he moved to JUTH F.C., appearing in 18 games and scoring four goals over two seasons. During a loan stint with Kano Pillars F.C. in the 2009–10 season, he set a league record by scoring 18 goals in a single season, helping the club secure a second-place finish.
European Development and CSKA Moscow
Musa joined the Dutch club VVV-Venlo in 2010, though eligibility rules delayed his debut until October 2010. By 2012, he transferred to the Russian side CSKA Moscow. During his tenure, he played in the UEFA Champions League and signed a four-year contract extension in 2015. He finished the 2015–16 Russian Premier League season as one of the league's top scorers.
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In July 2016, Leicester City signed Musa for a club-record fee of £16.6 million. He made his Premier League debut against Hull City and scored his first league goal in October 2016 against Crystal Palace. In 2018, he moved to the Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr, contributing to their Saudi Premier League and Saudi Super Cup victories in 2019.
International Milestones
Musa debuted for the senior Nigerian national team in September 2010 at age 17, replacing Mikel John Obi during a victory against Madagascar. He later became the first Nigerian to score in two separate FIFA World Cup competitions after recording a brace against Iceland in the 2018 group stage. He also participated in multiple Africa Cup of Nations tournaments.
Career Path in Turkey and Return Home
Following his time in Saudi Arabia, Musa had stints with Turkish clubs Fatih Karagümrük and Sivasspor, signing two-year contracts with each. Both agreements were eventually terminated by mutual consent. By October 2024, Musa returned to the Nigeria Premier Football League to begin his third spell with Kano Pillars.
Fast facts
- Born: 14 October 1992, Jos, Nigeria
- Primary positions: Forward and winger
- Club record fee: £16.6 million (Leicester City, 2016)
- Religion: Islam
- Languages: English, Nigerian Pidgin, Hausa
- 2014 World Cup: Scored two goals against Argentina
- 2018 World Cup: Scored two goals against Iceland
- Most capped player: Nigeria (110 appearances by November 2021)
Questions readers ask
What is Ahmed Musa's role for the Nigeria national team?
He is a forward or winger who holds the record as Nigeria's most capped player.
Which major clubs has Ahmed Musa played for?
His career includes spells at CSKA Moscow, Leicester City, Al Nassr, VVV-Venlo, and Kano Pillars.
