Former Super Eagles striker Obafemi Martins has revealed that his incredible speed on the pitch was the one quality that even legendary AC Milan defender Paolo Maldini feared during their Serie A battles.
Martins, who played for Inter Milan between 2002 and 2006, was known for his blistering pace and knack for scoring decisive goals, making him a constant threat to defenders in Italy’s top flight.
Speaking during Heineken’s Cheers to the Game series, Martins shared an interesting anecdote about his encounters with Maldini.
He recalled that the legendary Italian defender once called to inquire whether Martins would be playing in the Milan Derby.
“Do you know [Paolo] Maldini called to find out if I was going to play [in the Milan Derby]? And I was like, why am I that important?”
The Nigerian striker described the Milan backline of that era, which included Maldini and his defensive partner Alessandro Nesta, as formidable.
“They were like giants. These guys were strong, athletic, could play with their feet, and knew what they were doing. So, when I played against them, the only thing I waited for was a little mistake so I could use my speed to beat them.”
Martins, known for his sharp movements and lightning-fast sprints, revealed how his pace became his most lethal weapon against such experienced defenders.
Despite their tactical brilliance, Maldini and his AC Milan teammates were wary of Martins’ ability to exploit any small opening.
In a light-hearted moment, Martins also recounted an interaction with his former Inter Milan roommate, Christian Vieri, which highlighted the respect defenders had for his speed.
“I used to room with Christian Vieri. We were watching TV and preparing for the game when someone called. After they finished talking, Vieri said to me, ‘Do you know Maldini called? You know what? They are so scared of your speed.’”
During his time at Inter Milan, Martins made a significant impact, scoring 28 league goals in 88 appearances. His pace and goal-scoring ability were pivotal to the team’s successes, including Coppa Italia triumphs and a second-place finish in Serie A in 2005.
His ability to torment some of the best defenders in the world, including Maldini, remained a defining feature of his career, and it’s clear that even one of football’s greatest defenders couldn’t help but be wary of the Super Eagles striker’s blistering speed.
