Meet legendary goal-keeping Okala brothers

By Tosin Omojola

Emmanuel and Patrick Okala are among Nigeria’s and Africa’s greatest goalkeepers of all time.

Hailing from Idah, in present-day Kogi State, Nigeria, both brothers made their mark in football history. At various times in the 80s and 90s, they both guarded the goal for the Nigerian national team.

Emmanuel Okala holds the distinction of being Nigeria’s first “African Footballer of the Year,” an honor he earned after leading Enugu Rangers to victory in the 1977 African Winners’ Cup (now the CAF Confederations Cup).

He also played a key role in Nigeria’s triumph at the 1980 African Cup of Nations, marking a series of historic “firsts” for Nigerian football.

Emmanuel was later awarded the Order of the Niger (OON) for his contributions to the sport.

At 68 years old, the 6-foot-tall goalkeeper, nicknamed “Iroko,” remains beloved by fans. Despite having retired from international football 33 years ago, he is still applauded by supporters for his legendary performances.