During an Instagram Live interview with EaglesTracker, Nigerian goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama shared his thoughts on his standout performance against Argentina in the 2010 World Cup, revealing his deep respect for former Arsenal player Kanu Nwankwo and his admiration for Arsenal football club.
Enyeama’s exceptional saves earned him the Man of the Match title, despite Nigeria’s 1-0 loss to Argentina in the group stage of the 2010 FIFA World Cup held in South Africa. Enyeama disclosed that he was mentally prepared to face the challenge posed by the star player from Barcelona, Lionel Messi.
“I had studied Messi the night before (with Chidi Odiah) so everything he did that day, I was prepared for it. I already knew what he was going to do,” Enyeama revealed.
“I didn’t expect them to have that many opportunities to score against us, but I had watched about 15 of Messi’s previous league games so I knew what he was capable of in all situations.”
Expressing his admiration, Enyeama also mentioned that it was an honor for him to share the dressing room with Nwankwo Kanu.
“Till he left the Super Eagles, I couldn’t call him [Kanu] by name,” Enyeama said.
“I just used to say senior man. The respect I had for him was too much.”
When asked about his favorite goalkeeper, Enyeama chose the legendary Iker Casillas from Real Madrid.
“Casillas. Van Der Sar as well. I really looked up to him in terms of playing with my foot. But Casillas.. I could fight you if you insult Casillas,” he emphasized.
Upon being questioned about the club he would have loved to play for, Enyeama expressed his affection for Arsenal, citing his admiration for former player Kanu as a contributing factor.