Stephen Okechukwu Keshi CON (23 January 1962 – 7 June 2016) was a legendary figure in Nigerian football, excelling both as a player and a manager.

As a player, Keshi was a formidable defender, earning 60 caps for the Nigeria national team. He represented Nigeria in prestigious tournaments like the 1994 FIFA World Cup and the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations, where he captained the Super Eagles to victory. His club career spanned five countries, including Belgium, where he won the Belgian league championship with R.S.C. Anderlecht in 1991.

Transitioning to coaching, Keshi achieved remarkable success, notably guiding Togo to their first and only FIFA World Cup appearance in 2006. He later made history by coaching his native Nigeria to victory in the Africa Cup of Nations, becoming one of only two individuals to achieve this feat both as a player and a coach.

Keshi's coaching journey took him across various teams, including stints with the Nigerian national team, Mali, and Togo. Despite facing challenges and managerial changes, he remained dedicated to nurturing talent and fostering success on the international stage. Keshi's legacy extends beyond his coaching achievements, as he continues to be remembered as a symbol of resilience and excellence in African football.

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