legendary Nigeria footballers Mikel Obi and Mercy Akide have been listed in the panel of experts for the 2023 FIFA Best Football Awards.
Mikel a former Super Eagles captain had a remarkable footballing career, making 91 appearances for the Super Eagles of Nigeria, while Akide left indelible footprints in football following her performances for the Super Falcons, winning 3 wafcon titles.
Mikel who spend 11 years in Chelsea is among the 11 that shortlisted the nominees for the men’s category.
While his compatriot Mercy Akide, who is one of Nigeria’s greatest female footballers of all time, is among the 11 members in the women’s category, according to FIFA.
Panel of Experts
Women’s Panel
Mercy Akide (Nigeria)
Shirley Cruz (Costa Rica), Amy Duggan (Australia), Isabella Echeverri (Colombia),
Mia Hamm (USA), Jessica Houara (France),
Mana lwabuchi Uapan), Manon Melis (Netherlands), Patrizia Panico (Italy),
Clementine Toure (Ivory Coast), Kirsty Yallop (New Zealand.
Men’s Panel
Petr Cech (Czech), Didier Drogba (Cote d’Ivoire), Brett Emerton (Australia), Rio Ferdinand (England), Asamoah Gyan (Ghana), Kaka (Brazil), Mario Kempes (Argentina), Alexi Lalas (USA),
John Obi Mikel (Nigeria),
Park Ji-Sung (Korea Republic),
Ivan Vicelich (New Zealand).
Sportsbeep 