Former Nigeria striker Michael Eneramo died after collapsing during a friendly match in Kaduna on Friday, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) confirmed. The 40-year-old suffered a suspected cardiac arrest five minutes into the second half and could not be revived. Eneramo earned 10 caps for the Super Eagles and was known for his physicality and goalscoring during club stints in Tunisia, Algeria, Saudi Arabia and Turkey. He was particularly celebrated at Esperance in Tunisia, where fans nicknamed him Al Dababa (The Tank). The NFF general secretary, Dr Mohammed Sanusi, described the news as "devastating". Esperance paid tribute on X, calling Eneramo a symbol of strength, determination and resolve who created unforgettable moments. He made his Nigeria debut against Jamaica in 2009 after declining offers to represent Tunisia internationally.
A player celebrated for his physical dominance on the pitch met a sudden end due to a health crisis during a match. His death at 40, shortly after collapsing in Kaduna, underscores how quickly the body can fail even in athletes known for strength. Eneramo's choice to represent Nigeria over Tunisia and his legacy at Esperance remain fixed in the record. No Nigerian player featured in the incident beyond Eneramo himself.
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