Frank Onyeka Emerges as AFCON 2023 Best Tackler, Leads Super Eagles’ Strong Performance

Frank Onyeka, the Super Eagles of Nigeria midfielder, has been recognized as the standout performer in terms of tackling at the recently concluded 2023 African Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The renowned Nigerian footballer, dubbed the “tank” due to his robust display on the field, showcased exceptional skills in a total of seven matches played by the Nigerian national team during the tournament.

As a pivotal player for the Super Eagles, Onyeka played an integral role in their remarkable journey from the group stages to the competition’s final, where they narrowly lost 2-1 to the host nation, Ivory Coast.

Following the conclusion of the 2023 AFCON, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) revealed that Frank Onyeka recorded an impressive tally of 14 tackles and 11 interceptions throughout the tournament – the highest among all participants.

Onyeka, aged 26 and a standout performer for Brentford in club football, accumulated these defensive statistics by playing a total of 608 minutes from the seven games contested by Nigeria, out of a possible 660 minutes

The statistics showcased the exceptional defensive abilities of the energetic midfielder, further solidifying his reputation as a tough tackler and an asset to both his club and the national team.

In the AFCON rankings, Frank Onyeka was closely followed by his compatriot Calvin Bassey, Alex Iwobi, Sebastian Osigwe, Henry Onyekuru, Kenneth Omeruo, Benjamin Okenna, Gideon Kalulu, Aubrey Modiba, Ghislain Konan, and other top performers who displayed impressive defensive performances at the prestigious tournament.