Ex Super Eagles player, Michael Eneramo slumps, d!es during match

Tragedy struck in Kaduna on Friday as former Super Eagles forward Michael Eneramo collapsed and d!ed during a friendly match in Ungwan Yelwa

The ex-Nigeria international had completed the first half of the game before suddenly going down just five minutes into the second half, with early accounts pointing to a possible cardiac arrest. He was 40 years old, having been born on November 26, 1985, in Kaduna.

“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,”

Eneramo enjoyed a notable career both at home and abroad, earning admiration in Tunisia and Turkey. He made 10 appearances for Nigeria’s national team, the Super Eagles, after turning down an opportunity to represent Tunisia internationally.

He made his debut against Jamaica in London on February 11, 2009, in a goalless friendly. Later that year, he opened his goal account for Nigeria in a 1-1 draw with the Republic of Ireland, also in London, before featuring in a historic 1-0 victory over France in Saint-Étienne.

Eneramo was part of Nigeria’s squad during the 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign, playing in key matches, including a 3-0 win over Kenya in Abuja and the crucial ties against Tunisia. His standout moment came on September 6, 2009, when he scored in a memorable 2-2 draw against Tunisia in Abuja.

Fondly called “Al Dababa” (The Tank) by supporters of Esperance Sportive de Tunis, he became a fan favorite in North Africa, helping the club secure multiple trophies. He also had spells in Turkey with top sides like Beşiktaş J.K., Sivasspor, and Istanbul Basaksehir, where his strength and presence on the pitch earned widespread respect.