From Declan Rice to Abedi Pele, these Afrobeats bangers score big like the football legends they reference!
Afrobeats and football share a deep connection—both ignite passion, unite fans, and dominate conversations across Africa and beyond. It’s no surprise, then, that some of the biggest Afrobeats hits have been inspired by legendary footballers. From Odumodublvck’s energetic drill anthem Declan Rice to Ruger’s smooth Jay Jay.
Here are 20 Afrobeats songs named after football stars.
1. Odumodublvck – Declan Rice
Nigerian rapper Odumodublvck released Declan Rice in 2023, drawing inspiration from the English midfielder known for his defensive prowess. The track blends energetic beats with lyrics that metaphorically compare the artist’s resilience and versatility to Rice’s on-field performances. This song not only showcases Odumodublvck’s admiration for the baller but also highlights his ability to weave sports metaphors into his music.
2. Mohbad – Ronaldo
In Ronaldo, Nigerian artist Mohbad channels the charisma and skill of Portuguese legend Cristiano Ronaldo. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy hooks celebrate living life to the fullest, much like Ronaldo’s celebrated career. Through this track, Mohbad aligns his aspirations with the footballer’s excellence, aiming to inspire listeners to pursue greatness.
3. Ruger – Jay Jay
Ruger’s Jay Jay is a tribute to Nigerian icon Jay-Jay Okocha, who was celebrated for his flair and creativity on the pitch. The song’s smooth rhythm and playful lyrics mirror Okocha’s dazzling style, with Ruger drawing a cheeky parallel between the football legend’s skill and his romantic exploits.
4. Davido ft. Fave – Kante
Davido teams up with Fave on Kante, drawing inspiration from French midfield maestro N’Golo Kanté. Known for his relentless energy, Kanté’s qualities echo throughout the song. With lyrics like “Like Kanté, I’m feeling the pressure,” the artists weave soccer imagery into a tale of passion and resilience — both in love and on the dance floor.
5. Ycee – Mo Salah
Ycee’s Mo Salah draws parallels between his musical journey and the career of Egyptian footballer Mohamed Salah. The track’s energetic beats and clever wordplay celebrate Salah’s rise to prominence, symbolizing Ycee’s own aspirations and determination to make a mark in the industry.
6. Niniola – Maradona
Maradona by Niniola is a tribute to the legendary Argentine footballer Diego Maradona. The song uses football metaphors to describe a lover’s deceptive moves, much like Maradona’s skillful dribbles. Niniola’s fusion of Afro-house rhythms with poignant lyrics creates a track that’s both danceable and thought-provoking.
7. Priesst – Osimhen
In Osimhen, Priesst honors Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen. The song’s dynamic tempo and motivational lyrics reflect Osimhen’s journey from humble beginnings to international acclaim, serving as an anthem for overcoming challenges and achieving one’s dreams.
8. Guchi – Benzema
Guchi’s Benzema is inspired by French footballer Karim Benzema. The track combines sultry melodies with lyrics that liken a lover’s allure to Benzema’s finesse on the field, creating a sensual and captivating musical experience.
9. BOJ, Ajebutter22 & Falz – Ronaldo
Ajebutter22, Falz, and BOJ team up on Ronaldo, using the football legend’s name as a symbol of greatness and ambition. The track celebrates their drive to excel, with the hook making it clear they’re referring to Brazilian legend Ronaldo de Lima—whom they call “the old-school Ronaldo”—and not Cristiano Ronaldo.
10. Odumodublvck – Kevin De Bruyne Pass
Before Declan Rice catapulted him to global fame, ODUMODUBLVCK had already paid tribute to football stars. In his 2021 track Kevin De Bruyne Pass, he name-drops both Kevin De Bruyne and Mohamed Salah, rapping, “Score like I’m Moh Salah, Kevin De Bruyne pass.” The song highlights De Bruyne’s precision and playmaking skills, drawing a parallel between the midfielder’s flawless assists and the rapper’s sharp lyrical delivery.
11. Minz – Diallo
Minz’s “Diallo” is a smooth, feel-good track that nods to the common West African surname shared by several footballers. Whether he’s referring to Senegal’s Abdou Diallo or Ivory Coast’s Amad Diallo is anyone’s guess—but honestly, that’s the least of your worries. The song’s infectious Afrobeat rhythms and romantic lyrics create a laid-back, captivating vibe that pulls you in from the first note.
12. Afro B – Drogba (Joanna)
Afro B’s hit Drogba (Joanna) is a direct nod to Ivorian footballer Didier Drogba. The song became a global sensation, with its infectious beat and catchy chorus making it a staple in clubs worldwide. This track celebrates beauty and desire, with Afro B playfully comparing Joanna’s hold over him to Drogba’s dominance on the pitch.
13. MHD – Roger Milla
French rapper MHD pays tribute to Cameroonian football legend Roger Milla in this track. The song blends Afro-influenced elements with lyrics celebrating Milla’s legacy, symbolizing pride and excellence in African culture.
14. Olamide – C. Ronaldo
Olamide’s C. Ronaldo is an energetic track that uses the footballer’s name to symbolize confidence and success. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy lyrics encourage listeners to embrace their individuality and strive for greatness, much like Cristiano Ronaldo’s journey in football.
15. Mayorkun ft. DJ Maphorisa – Jay Jay
In this collaboration, Mayorkun and DJ Maphorisa honor Nigerian football legend Jay-Jay Okocha. The track’s lively beats and engaging lyrics reflect Okocha’s flair and creativity, encouraging listeners to dance and enjoy life’s moments.
16. DJ Arafat – Stephane Sessegnon
Ivorian artist DJ Arafat’s track pays homage to Beninese footballer Stéphane Sessègnon. The song’s high-energy beats and repetitive hooks mirror the excitement and dynamism associated with Sessègnon’s playing style, making it a favorite in West African clubs.
17. Kweku Flick – Kudus Dey
Ghanaian rapper Kweku Flick released Kudus Dey as an anthem to support the Black Stars, Ghana’s national football team, during the 2022 FIFA World Cup. The song celebrates Ghanaian attacker Mohammed Kudus and the Black Stars during the 2022 World Cup. With uplifting lyrics and a video featuring team highlights, the track rallies national pride and unity.
18. Odumodublvck – Duvan Zapata
As this article makes clear, Nigerian rapper Odumodublvck has an undeniable obsession with football references in his music. On this song, he channels the strength of Colombian striker Duván Zapata, with energetic beats and sharp wordplay. Lyrics like “Muscle full ground like Duvan Zapata” liken the rapper’s dominance to the footballer’s impact in Serie A.
19. Kofi Mole – Abedi Pele
Kofi Mole’s Abedi Pele pays homage to the Ghanaian football legend, drawing parallels between his own rise in music and Pele’s impact on the pitch. With the line, “I’ve been ballin’ so long, I’m a legend,” he highlights his dedication and skill. The track seamlessly blends traditional Ghanaian rhythms with modern beats, capturing the agility, strategy, and excellence that defined Abedi Pele’s career.
20. Omar Sterling – Abedi Pele Flow
Omar Sterling, one-half of R2Bees, flexes his lyrical prowess in Abedi Pele Flow, drawing parallels between the football legend’s finesse and his own smooth, strategic delivery. With sharp wordplay and compelling storytelling, the track highlights his mastery of the craft.
