Thompson Oliha (4 October 1968 – 30 June 2013) was a Nigerian professional footballer who played as a midfielder for clubs in Africa and Europe during an injury-shortened career. Club career Oliha played for Bendel Insurance (1985–1987), Iwuanyanwu Nationale (1988–1991), Africa Sports (1992–1993), Maccabi Ironi Ashdod (1993–1994) and Antalyaspor (1994–1995). As a player, he was known for his powerful shots and abilities in the air. Oliha retired at the age of 27, as a result of a serious knee injury. International career Oliha made a total of 31 appearances for the full Nigeria national team, scoring two goals. He made his international debut in 1990, in a game against Senegal and made his last appearance at the 1994 FIFA World Cup, as a late substitute against Italy. Oliha also played at the 1987 FIFA World Youth Championship. Death Oliha died due to complications from malaria on 30 June 2013. At the time of his death he was an assistant coach for the Kwara Football Academy. References External links 1968 births 2013 deaths Sportspeople from Benin City Association football midfielders Nigerian footballers Nigeria under-20 international footballers Nigeria international footballers Africa Cup of Nations-winning players 1990 African Cup of Nations players 1992 African Cup of Nations players 1994 African Cup of Nations players 1994 FIFA World Cup players Bendel Insurance F.C. players Heartland F.C. players Africa Sports d'Abidjan players Maccabi Ironi Ashdod F.C. players Antalyaspor footballers Süper Lig players Nigerian expatriate footballers Expatriate footballers in Ivory Coast Expatriate footballers in Israel Expatriate footballers in Turkey Nigerian expatriate sportspeople in Ivory Coast Nigerian expatriate sportspeople in Turkey Nigerian expatriate sportspeople in Israel Deaths from malaria