Itoro Shines as Magic Stars Win Big Again at Viareggio Tournament
Magic Stars were at their brilliant best on Wednesday, defeating Australia’s APIA Leichhardt FC 4-0 in their second game at the 75th Viareggio Youth Tournament in Italy.
The Lagos-based Nationwide League One (NLO) side made it two wins in a row, after their opening day victory over Casarano U19. With this result, Magic Stars are now the first team in Group 3 to reach six points. They also kept their first clean sheet of the competition.
One of the standout players was Itoro, whose performance caught the attention of the fans and scouts in the stands. His energy and link-up play helped his team dominate the game.
It didn’t take long for Magic Stars to make their mark. In the 9th minute, Sesan Emmanuel scored the opener from the penalty spot, sending the APIA goalkeeper the wrong way. Emmanuel then doubled the lead in the 17th minute, scoring his second goal of the match and his third of the tournament. His fine form has made him the team’s top scorer so far.
Kalu Chisom added the third goal with a composed finish, grabbing his second of the competition. Before halftime, Chinyere Emeka scored Magic Stars’ fourth goal in the 39th minute, giving them a comfortable lead going into the break.
Speaking after the match, the team’s Director of Sports, Isaac Iseoluwa Oluwatobi, praised the boys for their impressive display.
“It was a five-star performance from the team. They were determined and gave their best,” Oluwatobi said. “APIA Leichhardt FC played well, but Magic Stars were far better today. They improved by 85% compared to their last game against Casarano U19. The boys created good chances and finished them well.”
Looking ahead, Oluwatobi warned that their next match against Sassuolo U19 on Friday will be tough. Sassuolo surprisingly lost to Casarano U19, making the game even more important for both teams.
Magic Stars will be hoping to continue their winning run, with Itoro and the rest of the squad full of confidence after another strong performance in Italy.
