Nigerian Athlete Goes Viral for Resemblance to Ex-Arsenal Star Lacazette

Nigerian runner Edose Ibadin, on the other hand, is distinguishing himself at Paris 2024 not just with his running but also because of how much he looks like former Arsenal striker Alexandre Lacazette. Racing in Heat 2 of the men’s 800m, Ibadin placed sixth with a clocking of 1:46.56 which was not enough for automatic qualification as only the first three finishers would advance to Friday final.

Nevertheless, Ibadin is still determined. Indeed, he later announced on social media that while coming out of said race with a scar, he’s going to be contesting repechage round heat one in an effort to secure semi-final qualification.

Team Nigeria is yet to win a medal at the ongoing Games in Montpelier, France but Ibadin’s likeness with Lacazette has gained attention among French fans. Moreover, the French Ligue 1 went viral for sharing Ibadin’s resemblance with their footballer on its official X account.

Lacazette, one of the major stars in that tournament was surprisingly named as Thierry Henry’s U23 overage selection for the home soil competition. In the final, they will meet Spain as well.

Now as Ibadin gears up for his race he has an added layer of recognition on this Olympic journey for looking like Lacazette. His resemblance to the football legend and his can-do spirit have made him a figurehead at this month’s Paris 2024 Games.