Former Super Eagles striker Michael Eneramo has died after collapsing during a local friendly match in Ungwan Yelwa, Kaduna, on Friday morning. He was 40, Soccernet.ng reports.
Eneramo, who was born on 26 November 1985 in Kaduna, had played the entire first half before he suddenly went down early in the second period. Reports suggest the incident happened about five minutes into the second half, with no contact involved. Early indications point to cardiac arrest.
Efforts were made to revive him at the scene before he was taken to hospital, but he was later pronounced dead. The news has sent shockwaves through Nigerian football, with tributes already pouring in from across the game.
Nigeria Football Federation General Secretary, Mohammed Sanusi, said: “This is devastating. I am short of words at this moment. I can only pray that God will grant him eternal rest and also grant his loved ones and the Nigeria football family the fortitude to bear the loss.”
Michael Eneramo: Power box for club and country
Michael Eneramo’s career was built on strength, presence and a sharp eye for goal, qualities that made him a fan favourite in North Africa and Turkey.
He began his professional journey with Lobi Stars before moving to Espérance Sportive de Tunis in 2004. After early loan spells to gain experience, he returned to Tunisia and became one of the most feared forwards in the league.
Nicknamed Al Dababa (The Tank) by supporters, Eneramo scored 51 goals in 86 league matches for Esperance and helped the club win domestic honours, including a league and cup double. His performances earned him legendary status among the club’s fans.
He later moved to Turkey, where he played for sides including Sivasspor, Beşiktaş and İstanbul Başakşehir. At Sivasspor, he was particularly effective, scoring 29 goals in 77 appearances during his first spell.
On the international stage, Eneramo earned 10 caps for Nigeria between 2009 and 2011, scoring three goals for the Super Eagles. He made his debut in a goalless friendly against Jamaica in London on 11 February 2009.
His first goal came a few months later in a 1-1 draw against the Republic of Ireland, also in London. He went on to feature in a famous 1-0 win over France in Saint-Étienne and played a role in Nigeria’s qualifying campaign for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
One of his most memorable moments came on 6 September 2009 in Abuja, when he scored in a dramatic 2-2 draw against Tunisia during the qualifiers.
Despite interest from Tunisia to switch nationality, Eneramo chose to represent Nigeria, a decision that endeared him further to fans at home.
After retiring from professional football in 2018, Eneramo remained close to the game by running a football academy in Kaduna, helping to develop young players until his sudden demise.