Former Nigeria captain Okocha retires from international football

LAGOS, June 27 (Xinhua) -- Former Nigeria captain Austin 'Jay Jay' Okocha retired from international football on Friday after the Super Eagles and the World XI played a testimonial game in his honor in southeast Nigerian city Warri.

Despite heavy rains, Okocha produced a dazzling display and scored the winning goal for the Super Eagles in the second half of the game.

Some of the invited African stars described Okocha as the best player Africa has ever produced.

Senegalese strike El-Hadji Diouf said he had always wanted to play with or against Okocha in any game, because he was sure of having a nice time with the Nigerian in the field of play.

"Okocha is an inspiration to every player on the continent. He is a bundle of skills and I must confess, he is Africa's best player ever," he said.

Sierra Leone's Solomon Kalou said Okocha was robbed twice from becoming CAF's African Best Player.

"He has exceptional skills that qualify him for the award. He is an idol for all African players. These was why I came in for this testimonial match," he said.

Sulley Muntari of Ghana said Okocha had a brilliant career in international football.

"I'm a fan of Okocha, and as a player, I like watching Okocha on the field.

"It was unfortunate that the rain prevented us from having fun here in Warri. I'm happy for this great African. I only pray that whatever he chooses to do after today, he will make a success of it," he said.

Benjamin Nwaruworu from Zimbabwe said he always had a problem with Okocha whenever his country played against Nigeria.

"I always had this fear that Okocha could do anything to cause havoc. He was uNPRedictable. I see him as a great player of our time," he said.