Victor Nsofor Obinna launched his professional football career in 2005 after securing a contract with Italian club Chievo. A striker whose name translates from Igbo as father's heart, he navigated a complex early transition into European football, eventually representing several major clubs across Italy, England, Spain, Germany, Russia, and South Africa throughout his active years.
Early European Transitions
Before joining Chievo, Obinna gained experience with Nigerian clubs Plateau United and Kwara United. His path to Italy involved trials with Inter Milan, Perugia, and Juventus. An attempt to sign with Brazilian club Internacional stalled due to international clearance issues, leading him to rejoin Enyimba briefly. In July 2005, he signed with Chievo. Reports suggested an arrangement existed where he would eventually return to Inter Milan after utilizing a non-EU registration quota. In his Serie A debut on 11 September 2005, he scored the winning goal against Parma. Following Chievo's relegation in 2007, he remained to assist the club in earning promotion back to the top flight.
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Obinna officially joined Inter Milan in 2008 on a three-year contract for a fee of €1.2 million. He scored his first goal for the club against Roma in October 2008. The following year, he moved to Spanish side Málaga on a season-long loan. In 2010, he joined West Ham United on loan, where he produced notable performances, including a hat-trick against Nottingham Forest in the FA Cup. He also provided four assists in a League Cup victory over Manchester United before ending his tenure with the London club in 2011.
International Representation
A regular for Nigeria, Obinna debuted at the 2006 African Cup of Nations. During the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, he scored against Japan and the United States, helping Nigeria reach the final where they lost to Argentina. He also featured in the 2010 FIFA World Cup, making two appearances. His final tournament contributions included a winning goal in the third-place match against Algeria at the 2010 Africa Cup of Nations.
Later Career
After leaving Inter Milan, Obinna moved to Lokomotiv Moscow on a free transfer in 2011. His career later included stints with MSV Duisburg, Darmstadt 98, and Cape Town City in South Africa, where he played under his former teammate Benni McCarthy. His professional journey reflects a wide breadth of international competition spanning over a decade of play.
Fast facts
- Born: 25 March 1987, Jos, Nigeria
- Primary Position: Striker
- Professional Debut: 2005
- Notable Honours: Serie A champion 2008–09
- Olympic Achievement: Silver medal, 2008 Beijing
- Spouse: Anastasija Radi
Questions readers ask
Which clubs did Obinna play for in Italy?
He played for Chievo and Inter Milan.
Did he score in the 2010 Africa Cup of Nations?
Yes, he scored the winning goal in the third-place play-off against Algeria.
