Ahmed Musa describes winning AFCON 2013 as standout moment in illustrious career

Former Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa has identified Nigeria’s triumph at the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations as the defining highlight of his long and decorated international career.

The veteran forward made the revelation as he officially called time on his journey with the national team, bringing an era to a close after nearly 15 years of service.

Musa announced his retirement on Wednesday through an emotional message shared on his social media platforms. At 33, he becomes the second Nigerian international in recent weeks to step away from the national team, following the decision of William Troost-Ekong.

In his farewell message, Musa reflected on a journey that began at a very young age and evolved into one of the most remarkable careers in Nigerian football history.

“Dear Nigerians, Dear Super Eagles family, after a lot of thought, I have decided to retire from international football, bringing to an end almost 15 years with the Super Eagles,” Musa wrote.

“From the very first call-up, wearing the green and white meant everything to me. I was just a young boy when the journey started. I remember being invited at the same time to the U-20, U-23 and the Super Eagles. I was young, still learning, and always travelling, but I never complained.”

The former Leicester City forward stressed that representing Nigeria was never a decision he hesitated over, regardless of the circumstances.

“Whenever Nigeria called, I showed up. It was never something I had to think twice about. Football took me to many places around the world, but Nigeria was always home.”

Musa also spoke with pride about his record-breaking achievements with the national team, including becoming Nigeria’s most capped player.

“Playing 111 matches for my country is something I hold with deep respect To become the most capped player in the history of Nigerian football is a great honour. Every time I wore the jersey, I understood the responsibility that came with it. I did my best to give everything I had, whether things were going well or not, because playing for Nigeria was always bigger than me.”

Among the many memories he cherishes, the 2013 AFCON success stands tallest in his mind.

“There are moments I will never forget. Winning the 2013 AFCON will always stand out. That team showed what it meant to play for Nigeria.”

He also highlighted his World Cup exploits as moments of lasting pride.

“Scoring at the World Cup, against Argentina and Iceland, are memories I will always carry with me. To score four goals at the World Cup and be Nigeria’s highest goalscorer on that stage is something am truly grateful for.”

Musa described captaining the Super Eagles as a deeply educational phase of his career, shaped by leadership and selflessness.

“Being captain of the Super Eagles was another important part of my journey. Wearing the armband taught me a lot, about responsibility, patience, and putting others first.”

“It was never about being in charge, but about helping the team, supporting younger players, and standing up for the badge. Even during difficult times and criticism, my commitment to Nigeria never changed.”

As he steps away from international football, Musa expressed gratitude to everyone who played a role in his journey, from teammates and officials to supporters across the world.

“Football gave me a career, but Nigeria gave me meaning. To my teammates over the years, the coaches, backroom staff, and administrators, thank you for believing in me. To the fans at home and abroad, in stadiums and in front of their TVs, your support meant more to me than you know.”

He concluded his message with a sense of peace and pride, confident that his chapter with the Super Eagles has been written with honour.

“As I step away from international football, I do so with peace and gratitude. I know I gave my best. I know the Super Eagles will continue to move forward. And I know that this bond will never be broken.”

“Once an Eagle, always an Eagle. Thank you, Nigeria. Thank you for everything.”