John Obi Mikel and Celestine Babayaro represented Nigeria in style as part of the Chelsea Legends team that faced Liverpool in the annual LFC Foundation charity match at Anfield on Saturday. Despite their efforts, the Blues were defeated 2-0 by their Merseyside rivals.
Mikel was one of the standout performers for Chelsea, commanding the midfield alongside Claude Makelele, with Florent Malouda and Ramires adding width and flair. The former Super Eagles captain completed the full 90 minutes, showing that his class and composure remain intact.
Celestine Babayaro also featured from the start, playing for 34 minutes before being replaced by Loic Remy. The left back, a fan favourite from his time under Gianluca Vialli, looked sharp and contributed defensively before his substitution.
Liverpool broke the deadlock in the 55th minute through Peter Crouch, who scored with a looping header before adding a second goal minutes later. Chelsea attempted to respond, with a clever flick from Mikel setting up Jon Harley for a spectacular lob that drifted just wide.
Mikel’s career at Chelsea spanned over a decade, where he won two Premier League titles, four FA Cups, two League Cups, the Champions League, and the Europa League before his departure in 2017. Babayaro, too, left his mark, lifting the FA Cup in 2000 and playing a role in Chelsea’s first Premier League title triumph.
Editorial
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Seeing John Obi Mikel glide effortlessly across the Anfield pitch reminds us all why he remains one of Nigeria’s most decorated football exports. His performance in this charity match was a masterclass in composure, vision, and timing qualities that endeared him to Chelsea fans during his illustrious career.
These matches may be about nostalgia and charity, but for players like Mikel and Babayaro, they are also an opportunity to remind the world of the talent that once thrilled millions. Mikel’s clever assist attempt and Babayaro’s determined presence were a joy to watch. It’s clear that these legends still possess the footballing intelligence that made them great.
Peter Crouch’s brace may have sealed the win for Liverpool, but Chelsea fans will have taken comfort in the elegance of their former heroes. And for Nigerian fans, seeing two national icons represent on such a stage stirs pride and admiration.
We believe these appearances also serve as inspiration for younger Nigerian players. Mikel and Babayaro’s legacies are proof that with hard work and dedication, they too can reach the highest levels and one day be celebrated on the same stages. The past lights the path forward, and their careers will continue to inspire.
Did You Know?
- John Obi Mikel made 372 appearances for Chelsea, ranking him among the club’s most capped players.
- Celestine Babayaro joined Chelsea from Anderlecht in 1997 for a then-record fee for a teenager.
- Peter Crouch, who scored both goals for Liverpool Legends, once scored in 10 consecutive Premier League matches.
- Mikel won the Chelsea Young Player of the Year award twice, in 2007 and 2008.
- Babayaro represented Nigeria at the 1996 Olympics, where the team won gold in football.
