The Panenka looks at the Super Eagle’s golden generation who reigned supreme in the 1996 Olympic games in Atlanta, USA.

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Saturday 3 August 1996: a date that will forever go down as one of the greatest in Nigerian football history. 20 years ago, the original Nigerian ‘Dream Team’ defeated Argentina 3-2 in the final of the Men’s Olympic Football Tournament, becoming the first African country to win gold at the competition.

Jo Bonfrere’s explosive side captured the imagination of supporters with their exciting brand of football which saw them defeat Brazil 4-3 in the dying seconds of the semi-final after trailing 3-2 in the 89th minute.

In the final they twice came from behind and dispatched an Albiceleste side 3-2 who were armed to the teeth with the likes of Ariel Ortega, Claudio Lopez and Hernan Crespo.

This is the squad that brought suspense and entertainment to the 1996 Olympic arena like never before through their exuberance, speed, technicality, endurance and