A throwback picture of the legendary Taribo West has been gaining traction on social media ahead of Nigeria's FIFA World Cup qualifier against Zimbabwe.

The Super Eagles, via their official X handle, on Monday, March 24, shared some memorable moments of the former Inter Milan and AC Milan defender during his time with the national team.

Notable among the flashback pictures was a moment when the former defender-turned-pastor bled and wept following Nigeria's 2-1 defeat to Sweden during the Japan-Korea FIFA World Cup in 2002.

The defeat to Sweden meant the Super Eagles would not advance to the round of 16, and it came as a bitter pill for West to swallow.

The throwback pictures have elicited reactions from Nigerians on social media, emphasizing the dedication and commitment of former Super Eagles players—a quality some believe is missing in the current crop of players.

An X user @Michael Ilechukwu wrote, "Back then, seeing him at the back gives me this huge confidence 👏"

Another User @Bookunming tweed, "My Pastor Taribo West! Good old days..."

@Mason_emma001 said, "This jersey suppose Dey for museum . It should’ve been a motivation to inspire players that wants to play for this country. SWEAT AND BLOOD"

@de_bolaa added, "When the shirt meant something!"

Check out other reactions below:

@yinkaisola14: "Those Ones Played For The Love Of The Country Not Money"

@yusufgbolarhan: "Send to new super eagles teams"

@michaelamo2005: "We don't have such players in the team now"

@Nigerian stories: "Men that played for Super Eagles with their Blood, Sweat and Tears"

Passion for country Tears and Joy
Pastor Taribo West #tbt #soarsupereagles pic.twitter.com/mYNHdKA0E8

— 🇳🇬 Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) February 27, 2025

🇳🇬 🦅 Photo of when Taribo West bled after a clash of heads in Nigeria's 2-1 loss to Sweden in the 2002 FIFA World Cup

Our 2nd loss in the group & meant we won't advance. This made him cry at full time 😢

Men that played for Super Eagles with their Blood, Sweat and Tears ♥👏🏽 pic.twitter.com/tGlyH5Okts

— Nigeria Stories (@NigeriaStories) March 24, 2025