The World Cup is the pinnacle of a footballer’s career. But some players reach the pinnacle more quickly than others. The 5 Africans who have equalled one of King Pele’s records
The illustrious legend King Pele played in his first World Cup at the age of 17.
Although they may never again win the World Cup or have a career of glory like the Brazilian legend, some Africans were on the international stage by the age of 17.
The 5 Africans who equalled one of King Pele’s records
Rigobert Song- Cameroon (17 years, 11 months and 18 days)
It doesn’t seem fair that Song isn’t playing anymore. We thought he was going to go on forever. But with 137 caps and two African Cup of Nations wins, he’ll always be a legend in Cameroon. Rigobert Song played in the 1994 World Cup at 17 years 11 months.
Samuel Eto’o- Cameroon (17 years, three months and seven days)
Eto’o, who made his Cameroon debut at the age of 15, came on to play 34 minutes against an Italian defense comprising Paolo Maldini, Fabio Cannavaro, Alessandro Costacurta and Alessandro Nesta. This chaste experience launched him on a brilliant career, including three Champions League medals and two African Cup of Nations trophies.
Femi Opabunmi- Nigeria (17 years, three months and nine days)
English fans may remember Opabunmi from the Nigerian team in the 0-0 draw with England at the 2002 World Cup. It was his last appearance in a Nigerian shirt, as he moved from Grasshopper to Hapoel Be’er Sheva, then to Shooting Stars. Eyesight problems cut short his career.
Salomon Olembe- Cameroon (17 years, six months and three days)
The second-youngest player in Cameroon’s 1998 World Cup squad didn’t quite match Etoo’s career, but he gave it a go. As well as winning 64 caps for Cameroon, Olembe has played for Nantes, Marseille, Leeds United, Al Rayyan, Wigan Athletic, Kayserispor and Larissa. An eclectic mix.
Bartholomew Ogbeche- Nigeria (17 years, eight months and one day)
If prizes had been awarded for having a good name, Bartholomew would have won the lot. But playing for Nigeria at the 2002 World Cup was about as satisfying as it was for Ogbeche, who came through the PSG academy.
| Pos | Player |
|---|---|
| 1. | Rigobert Song |
| 2. | Samuel Eto’o |
| 3. | Femi Opabunmi |
| 4. | Salomon Olembe |
| 5. | Bartholomew Ogbeche |
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