Flying Eagles of Nigeria scouting tournament ends in Uyo
A two-day scouting tournament to discover players for the Nigeria Flying Eagles team has been concluded in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State captial.
Nigeria National U-20 Coach Ladan Bosso, former Nigerian international Victor Ikpeba, and NFF Board Member Hon. NSE Essien were in Uyo for the two-day football scouting tournament.
The scouting event took place at the Uyo Township Stadium on April 17/18, saw about 420 Under 20 aged players from 20 clubs across the South-South and South-East regions of Nigeria participating.
In chats shared by Journalist Akanimo Kufre, Victor Ikpeba, a renowned Nigerian footballer and brand icon, expressed his delight at the caliber of players showcased in the tournament.
He commended the presence of Coach Ladan Bosso and goalkeeper trainer Etta Egbe, noting that their involvement added significant value to the football event.
“So far, we have seen some good players, highly motivated, and the coach has been able to identify some talents. It is a good football event, and this type of initiative should be replicated across the country. It will facilitate the discovery of talents,” said Ikpeba.
Ladan Bosso, reflecting on the U20 team’s performance in Accra 2023, emphasised the need for a scouting process due to the elimination of some players through substitution.
“We are here to replenish the national U20 team. We have identified some players who cannot return to the team, and we are looking for suitable replacements for those positions,” Coach Bosso stated.
Meanwhile, FC One Rocket’s boss and NFF Board Member, Hon. Nse Essien, highlighted that the Scouting Program was organized by the Indomitable Foundation to provide an opportunity for U20 national team selectors, including Coach Ladan Bosso, to scout for players.
“With the U20 team’s upcoming engagements, including the WAFCON in October, the coach needs ample opportunity to assess players in that age bracket for international assignments. This event also serves as an opportunity for young talents to showcase their skills and enhance their football careers intentionally,” said Hon. Essien.
Among the participating clubs were Blessed Stars Football Academy, Diamond Academy, FC One Rocket, P Sports FC, Dreams to Win FC, Vandrezzer, Dakada FC, Right to Win FC, Ibom Youths FC, Chimoski FC, Morak FC, and TP Sports FC.
