Former Super Eagles striker, Obafemi Martins, has backed standout performers from the inaugural Italian Consulate General U-20 Cup in Lagos to build careers in Italy’s Serie A, saying he will leverage his network to help connect top talents with European clubs.
According to The Punch, Martins, who netted 18 goals in 42 appearances for Nigeria and played at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa during a globe-trotting career that included spells at Inter Milan, Newcastle United, Birmingham City, as well as clubs in the United States, Spain, Germany, Russia and China, featured as an ambassador of the tournament alongside ex-Super Eagles midfielder Christian Obodo.
“I am very impressed by their display. They have really shown me they have the skills to compete, and I think when they go to Italy, they can fight for their chances in Serie A,” he told our correspondent.
The six-day tournament, staged between June 2 and June 7 at the Mobolaji Johnson Stadium in Onikan, Lagos, was put together by the Italian Consulate General in Lagos as a platform for youth talent discovery and cultural exchange between Nigeria and Italy.
Eight teams took part, including Okaka FC, Plateau United, Bendel Insurance and 36 Lions FC.
Tournament organiser Emmanuel Omijeh said the level of talent uncovered had exceeded expectations, noting that selecting the final group of players for the planned trip to Italy was already proving difficult.
“It’s confusing because we have too many players. I think 40 stars have been scouted, but we have to prune them down to 20, and when they get to Italy, it’s all theirs to win”.
He also appreciated the support of Lagos State and other stakeholders for providing the venue and logistics.
“Thanks to Lagos State for giving us the facility, and I say thanks to everyone,” Omijeh said.
Italian Consul General Ugo Bani, who attended throughout the competition, praised the success of the initiative and the opportunities it could create.
“It was fantastic till the end, and I hope this chance will be a great opportunity,” Bani said.
Obodo, who transitioned from the Nigerian league with Plateau United before enjoying a solid Serie A career with Perugia, Fiorentina and Udinese, said the quality in the final impressed observers and confirmed that he had already shared his evaluations with the recruiting clubs.
“I think we got the best at the end. It was a fantastic final, we all saw both sides and especially the team that won, and it was worth the trip. I have called those who sent me here, and I hope my judgment does justice for those who I like and they get a chance,” Obodo said.
Tournament technical director Ken Enofe described the players as exceeding expectations given their level of development.
“It was really more than what I expected. I know African football is so good, but these guys were very impressive in playing to the standard we expected. They’re not there yet, but for this level, it was really good,” Enofe said.
Tournament chairman Kofo Williams also commended the talent on display while stressing the need for further development.
“I am very pleased with the tournament and the good talents who are still raw and will need more coaching, but they have done very well.”
At the end of the competition, the winning team alongside selected standout players from across the participating sides will head to Italy for a scouting tour aimed at earning professional contracts.
Martins had earlier emphasized that the project was not limited to rewarding only the champions, as exceptional individuals from other teams would also be considered for opportunities in Europe.
