When Marc-Andre ter Stegen jumped to collect a left-handed deep corner kick just before half time in Barcelona's 5-1 against Villarreal in September, he landed awkwardly on his right knee.

The then 32-year-old was clearly in discomfort and was subsequently take off the pitch on a stretcher. Further tests confirmed the German international has ruptured his patella tendon and would require surgery, which means he spent majority of the 2024/25 campaign recovering. In response, Barcelona made an emergency signing for 35-year-old Wojciech tek Szczesny. The former Juventus man became the club’s first-choice goalkeeper as Barcelona won La Liga and the Copa del Rey.

It is over a month into the summer transfer window and Barcelona targets are almost complete. The club announced goalkeeper Joan Garcia's arrival from Espanyol last week. But a harder business of orchestrating significant players’ exit now looms for the Spanish giants.

The 24-year-old’s presence at the Camp Nou looks more likely to mean consequences for Marc-Andre ter Stegen with speculations hinting at the 33-year-old’s departure from the club.

Ter Stegen is part of the few Barcelona players remaining from the spendthrift of former president Joseph Maria Bartomeu. While his contract runs through until 2028, the arrival of new players during this transfer window means Barcelona are trying to free up space as they are already above their La Liga imposed salary limit. And, Ter Stegen, who was appointed club captain last season is the first on the list of players the club would prefer to do away with before the end of the transfer window.

Since joining Barcelona for a reported fee of € 12 million from Borussia Moenchengladbach in 2014, Ter Stegen has played a total of 442 matches, winning 19 trophies, including the 2014/15 Champions League and six La Liga titles.

Despite his age, the German’s quality between the sticks cannot be called to question. But the availability of a locally born 24-year-old Garcia from city rivals Espanyol after an excellent La Liga campaign was an opportunity too good to pass.

And beyond the age factor, there lies a much more complicated financial element which plays a major role in Ter Stegen’s situation and may even culminate in an eventual departure.

In October 2020, the goalkeeper put pen to paper in a deal which keeps him at the club until 2025; as at that time, Bartomeu was in charge at Barcelona.

The deal helped Barcelona balance their books as they navigated the financial impacts of the pandemic as it saw Ter Stegen defer a percentage of his total salary towards the end of his contract. But the extension was rather counter productive as it meant his wages will skyrocket as the years pass.

When Laporta was elected for a second term in 2021, he inherited the deferred contract. It was quite exorbitant; he contacted Ter Stegen's camp in 2923 to find a solution. The outcome of the negotiation meant the German international signed a new deal — his current one which runs through until 2028 — helping to spread his wages over more years.

With three years left of his existing contract, Ter Stegen is due to receive a substantial amount in the coming years. However, recent reports indicate that coupled with Barcelona's financial standing in La Liga, the club considers the player's wages too high and are willing to offload him even if it means losing him for free.

With this, the goalkeeper finds himself wrapped in an unfamiliar situation with the club, as did teammates Frankie de Jong and Raphinha.

Three summers ago, De Jong was a primary target by the Barcelona hierarchy. Manchester United were willing to pay at least €75 million for the player, but he was adamant to leave the club.

Subsequently, Spanish outlet Marca published a report comprising what they said were details of De Jong’s contract, including how his sale would rise to €40 million (from €16m at the time) in the football campaign.

The Barcelona hierarchy pressured De Jong to take the money and leave but he refused. Speculations regarding the future continued in the following seasons, and were more pronounced whenever Barca had issues with La Liga about signing new players.

Raphinha is another player who has faced pressure to leave the club last Summer. The Brazilian knew the club was in need of money to sign Nico Williams from Athletic Bilbao and offloading him was a welcomed idea. The player even considered the possibility of moving to the Saudi Pro League after multiple speculations-cum-pressure from the Spanish media.

Raphinha stayed and he registered 34 goals and 24 assists across 54 appearances this season. He was also a crucial element in Barcelona’s La Liga, Copa del Rey and Supercopa de Espana triumphs. In response, Barcelona rewarded him with a new contract which expires in 2028.

Gerard Pique, Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba, and Ousmane Dembele were all pressured to leave.

It seems now, it is Ter Stegen’s turn.

Mundo Deportivo has published claims that coach Hansi Flick will make Garcia his No 1 goalkeeper next season, even if Ter Stegen stays. Another local radio station, RAC1 reported that Laporta told board members that Barcelona will look to sell him once Garcia is signed. Jijantes also claimed that Barca’s sporting director, Deco would tell Ter Stegen he is to be the third choice goalkeeper next season.

Marca has also added that his annual salary is €120 million per year compared to the original €6 million he receives. A rather familiar strategy as with De Jong.

Ultimately, suche media coverage affects how France views players. When Barcelona promoted a video about Ter Stegen's recovery, a huge percentage of the comment section harboured a level of animosity towards the player, with many comments critical of his performances including the hashtag #TerStegenOut.

On a flip side, Barcelona believe they have the upper hand in terms of a potential move for Ter Stegen. This year, German head coach, Julian Nagelsmann announced Ter Stegen as his starting goalkeeper following Manuel Neuer retirement from international duty in August. Ter Stegen could be his country’s No 1 goalkeeper in next year’s World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico. Spending this coming season as second or at worse third option could put that at risk.

Ter Stegen played just two matches after returning from injury in May. At the time, Wojciech manned the sticks throughout the season. With Garcia's arrival, the 33-year-old’s chances of securing sufficient playing time under Flick is slimmer, but Ter Stegen has dug his heels in and remains reluctant to leave. He is determined to stay and fight for the No 1 spot.

The player’s camp is yet to receive any formal message from Barca about his position in the club. And should he eventually succumb to the pressure from Barcelona and the Spanish media, it is difficult to envisage his potential destination.

Madrid is a no-go. Joining Bayern Munich is out of option as Neuer is favoured there, and he might need to take a huge pay cut to join a club in his homeland or any club due to his age.

But one option which may afford him a high wage and sufficient playing time would be the Saudi Pro League. But the chances are very slim as recent reports from Saudi clubs indicate the league does not prioritize moves for players aged 30 and above.

Ter Stegen's next destination remains unclear. It would be interesting to watch it unravel.

Haliyah Abdulsalam, believes that being comfortable is crucial for every athlete, especially women – which is why she is very particular about the phenomenon of period poverty which – for a number of times – plagues her performance as a football player in the university of Ibadan.

“Having my period puts my entire life on hold: I skip classes, avoid going out, and miss training because I know I can’t perform at my best,” she says. “Three years ago, things were different. Although sanitary pads were still expensive, I could afford them. Now, prices have skyrocketed, and I have to be extremely economical with how many I use daily.”

On days when she experiences severe menstrual cramps or lacks access to sanitary pads, Haliyah is forced to use small pieces of clothing as substitutes, often missing football training sessions and citing illness as an excuse. Unfortunately, this is not just her reality—it is the reality of many female footballers at the University of Ibadan.

The cost of sanitary pads in Nigeria has surged dramatically, with some brands increasing prices by over 400%. This makes them unaffordable, especially for student-athletes who juggle academics and sports. Since not all athletes have a stable source of income – making these products unaffordable - many resort to locally produced reusable sanitary pads, which, although cheaper, are not ideal for athletes engaged in high-intensity sports.

“When I buy the cheaper ones, which have very low absorbency, I risk staining myself. That makes it difficult to focus on football,” Haliyah explains.

Haliyah’s passion for football began as a hobby and evolved into a dream of playing professionally. However, missing five to six training sessions per month due to period-related challenges has significantly hindered her progress.

“Because I miss training a few days every month, I often get benched for matches and competitions as punishment,” she says. “I don’t feel comfortable telling my coach about it, and I wish we had a female coach or assistant we could talk to. I feel a woman would better understand our struggles.”

Menstrual periods come with hormonal changes, including drops in estrogen levels, which cause discomfort such as cramps, mood swings, and body aches. Haliyah’s teammate, Esther Peters, shares a similar experience.

“For me, I consider myself lucky because I don’t have cramps throughout my period, just for a few days. But even then, I still force myself to give my best during training because I don’t want to be left out of matches,” she says. “Some of my teammates, who are unable to attend training, end up losing their spots on the team because of how competitive it is.”

The issue of period poverty is further worsened by the lack of institutional support. The university’s football team does not provide sanitary products for players, nor does it offer medical assistance to ease menstrual discomfort. Abigail, a member of the Queen Elizabeth II Hall football team, believes the university’s Sports Council should take responsibility for providing sanitary materials and painkillers that are safe for consumption.

“We made a suggestion last academic session that sanitary pads should be included in medical kits. We were told it would be considered, but we have yet to receive any feedback. And with the look of things, it does not seem like the situation will change any time soon,” Abigail says. “Even if it’s impossible to provide free sanitary materials, they should at least be available at subsidized rates.”

Female student-athletes already face systemic challenges, including underfunding, limited representation, and academic marginalization. Beyond these, they also deal with reduced media coverage and a lack of student spectators' interest. Now, the soaring cost of sanitary pads is yet another challenge they must navigate.

A member of the university’s Sports Council, who chose to remain anonymous to preserve relationships, confirmed that the council received a total of 1.5 million naira from the university for the current academic year. This amount is insufficient to cover all 13 sporting events, as well as the purchase and maintenance of sports facilities. Due to financial constraints, sports faculties, departments, and halls of residence rely on sponsorships from external brands to organize sporting events. Hence, it is largely impossible to provide free sanitary materials for female athletes in the institution.

Addressing period poverty is essential for promoting gender equality in sports. For female footballers at the University of Ibadan, the ability to access sanitary products without financial constraints would significantly improve their participation and performance. Until substantial measures are put in place, student-athletes like Haliyah and her teammates will continue to struggle with an issue that should never have been a barrier to their success.

Expertise could be attained from a show of interest, something as cliché as consistency, or even genetic engineering in some special cases. In any of these scenarios, what seemed insurmountable at first glance becomes second nature, something you do with the slightest consciousness. The best part? It amazes people who watch you do your thing so effortlessly, leaving them to wonder if they could ever be that good. Of course, there’s always a chance—they could show interest, stay consistent, or maybe, just maybe, it isn’t their thing after all.

On our radar for the first installment of this series is a young gentleman whose love for sports goes beyond words. He has taken it a step further, participating at every level imaginable—class, department, faculty, hall of residence, and even the university at large.

AQUAMAN IN THE MAKING

Aduragbemi is a fifth-year medical student at the College of Medicine, University of Ibadan. Outside lecture theatres and wards, he is a multi-faceted athlete best known for his love for volleyball. Despite the grueling demands of medical school, Adura maintained his presence at the volleyball court in the Old Sports Complex, UI, earning himself a reputation as a volleyball faithful. Interestingly, however, his nickname was not inspired by volleyball but by another sport he has mastered.

His journey into volleyball began in the second semester of his first year. Before then, he was just a ball boy, watching the players with admiration. One day, he mustered the courage to approach the coach. “I asked him if I could learn how to play, and he was kind enough to say yes. That was where it all started. He took me through the basics, and before long, I was practicing with the team," Adura recounted.

Since then, he has stepped onto numerous courts, earning well-deserved accolades. His most recent achievement placed him in the spotlight at the Lotus Bank NiMSA Games 2024, where he represented the University of Ibadan Medical Students’ Association (UIMSA) in volleyball. He was part of the team that clinched the bronze medal in the competition.

Reflecting on the tournament, he expressed his disappointment at missing out on a gold medal, “The most unforgettable match was against LASU in the NiMSA Games. We dominated the first set 1-0, but fatigue set in during the second, allowing LASU to level the score. In the decisive third set, we gave it our all, but couldn’t clinch the victory. A win would have secured silver or gold, but we had to settle for bronze. The loss was devastating, knowing we had it within reach and let it slip away.”

BEYOND VOLLEYBALL: A MULTI-SPORT STAR

Since his volleyball debut three years ago, Adura’s trajectory has been nothing short of remarkable accumulating an array of medals including; a slver medal at Ulympics 2021, bronze medal at Ulympics 2023, gold medal at the Interfaculty Volleyball Competition 2023, gold medal at JCI Volleyball Competition, and a gold medal at Hoya’s Pump Volleyball Competition 2024.

However, volleyball is not his only forte. Adura also excels in track events as a 200m dash sprinter, although an unfortunate knee injury during the Pre-NiMSA heats kept him from representing his side in that category.

Saving the best for last, his most jaw-dropping feat at the NiMSA Games came on the final day in the swimming events. As the only athlete from UIMSA in swimming, he dominated all four male swimming categories, including the 50m freestyle, the 50m backstroke, the 100m freestyle, and the 100m backstroke.

"It was an unbelievable feeling. UIMSA had only two gold medals before the swimming events, one from the Male Table Tennis and another from the Male 400m dash. To contribute four more gold medals felt surreal," he shared.

WHY "AQUAMAN"?

When asked about his nickname, "Aquaman," Adura recalled that it was given to him by a friend in his first year, die to his roots in a riverine area. Surprisingly, the NiMSA Games was his first-ever competitive swimming event.

"I always wanted to join the UI swimming team, but during COVID-19, the pool was shut down, and the team became inactive. By the time it reopened, medical school had become too demanding. So, I never really had the chance."

Despite this, he never doubted his ability. "I knew I had a shot because I had competed against other swimmers while growing up. But at the back of my mind, I kept thinking a trained swimmer would beat me. In the end, I just trusted my instincts and went for it."

Of the races he won, his most dramatic race was the 100m freestyle event. "For most of the race, I was just behind the guy leading. But in the last 15m, I noticed he was getting tired. That’s when I went all in, pushed forward, and overtook him right before the finish line," he recalled.

It is no surprise that he idolizes Michael Phelps. “His consistency in winning Olympic medals, year after year, before retiring is remarkable. Achieving that level of success requires an incredible amount of dedication and hard work," Adura said, clearly drawing inspiration from the legendary swimmer.

FUTURE IN SPORTS & CHALLENGES IN UI

Despite the challenges of balancing medical school and sports, Adura has no plans of stopping.

"Balancing both isn’t really an issue for me. At Alexander Brown Hall, many consultants come to play volleyball on Saturdays and rarely miss a session. Most of them played during their student days, so I don’t see it being a problem for me either."

To improve sports participation in UI, Aquaman pointed out the lack of proper facilities, "The UI volleyball team has only one ball, and it wasn’t even provided by the school—it was a donation. Better equipment and improved facilities in our sports arenas would go a long way."

He also suggested yearly awards for athletes in UI and scholarships for dedicated sportspersons.

Looking ahead, Adura has set his sights on the next NiMSA Games, where he hopes to expand his sporting repertoire to handball, basketball, and football.

THE AQUAMAN LEGACY

Adura’s journey is a testament to his unwavering dedication, tireless work ethic, and raw talent. His impact extends beyond sports, serving as an inspiration to fellow student-athletes. His passion, resilience, and commitment to excellence make him an exemplary role model.

The university community eagerly anticipates his future exploits, cheering him on as he continues to break records and achieve greatness. For UIMSAites, Adura's story is one of pride, motivation, and a reminder that limits exist only to be shattered.

"The journey has been amazing so far, and I’m just getting started," he concluded with a confident smile.”

Dark horses!

That’s exactly what UIMSA has been in sports. Contrary to expectations, medical students are often perceived to be perpetually buried in books and devoted to long hours in the clinic. However, the University of Ibadan Medical Students Association (UIMSAites) have shattered this stereotype, demonstrating that they are more than just bookworms. Theor mpressive display of athleticism in the previous year serves as a testament to the untapped sporting talent and relentless spirit they possess.

From Ulympics ‘24 to the National Schools Teams Chess Championship, the Federation of Africa University Sports (FASU) Games, the NiMSA Games, SEALS Cup ‘24, the ABH League, the Super Cup ‘24, and back to Ulympics ‘25, UIMSAites have displayed all-round excellence on the track and the field.

Notably, the female football team went from “the first team to lose both the semifinal and final of Provost Cup 2023” to the best female football team in University of Ibadan.

It was also a year of revelation for upcoming student-athletes Emmanuel Soriwei 2k25 class (sprints and long jump), Lekan Olanrewaju of the 2k26 class (sprints), Aduragbemi Oludehinwa 2k24 class (swimming), Adeola Adekojo 2k27 class (female basketball), and Oluwasegun Adegoke a.k.a Prestige 2k27 class.

The first event of the year, Ulympics ‘24, saw UIMSAites dazzling in various sports. In the individual sports category, Inioluwa John of class 2k21 claimed victory in Scrabble, while Eniola Femi-Oni and Okpara Charles dominated female and male table tennis, respectively. Chess maestro Blessing Akporherhe not only won the chess event but also earned the title of Sportsman of the Year.

Track events were no less electrifying, with classmates Fola Olorunyomi and Victor Olorunfemi sprinting to gold in the 100m female and make categories. Their dominance extended to the mixed 4x100m relay, where they teamed up with Basit Saliyu and Eniola Femi-Oni to claim another gold for their class.

Meanwhile, Chidinma Onyiuke, the current Sports Secretary clinched gold at the female javelin event, Qudus Akande of the 2k23 class won the male 800m sprint while Temiloluwa Aderemi of the 2k24 won the female category of the event.

At the Sports Award Night, which debuted last year, Fola was named Female Athlete of the Year, while Victor was crowned Male Athlete of the Year. Eniola Femi-Oni took home the Sportswoman of the Year award, and the ever-impressive Ebunoluwa Ogunkunle (female) was recognized as Rookie of the Year after her victory in the 200m sprint.

In team events, 2k21 finally got the better of their close rivals, the 2k19 class, to win the male football tournament. The star-studded 2k21 female football team also won their category of the tournament.

The UIMSA male football team, known for keeping fans on edge with their unpredictable style, stormed to victory in just their second year of participation, surpassing their third place finish in the previous year. The team had risen from average performances in the early matches of the competition to excellent performances in the knockout stages. They overcame Human Kinetics and Health Education (KHE), Urban and Regional Planning (URP), Economics, Wood Products Engineering (WPE), Petroleum Engineering, Psychology, and, finally, Industrial and Production Engineering (IPE) in a nerve-wracking final. The defining moment came when Babajide Badmus delivered an “Agüero moment” that sealed the win, rewriting what seemed like yet another final-tragedy for UIMSA. Fans will also remember Istanbul’s audacious goal from the centre half against Petroleum Engineering in the quarter final and the penalty save by Emerald in the penalty shootout of the final.

The female team, though falling just short in the SEALS Cup final after a tense penalty shootout against ASSE, had their moment of redemption at the Super Cup. A hard-fought 1-0 win against Statistics crowned them champions, bringing well-deserved gold medals to powerhouses like Eseosa, Chioma Obiora, Chidinma, Shola, Victoria Kolawole and Agnes. However, the Super Cup final was bittersweet, as the male team’s impressive run ended in heartbreak, with a penalty shootout loss despite a dominant campaign. Individual brilliance still shone through, with Habeeb Akinlabi finishing as highest goal scorer (5 goals in 4 matches), Victoria Kolawole earning Most Valuable Player, and Chioma Obiora clinching Best Goalkeeper.

The rise of the 2k27 class (Eximius) has also been one of the year’s most exciting storylines. Their football team announced their arrival by defeating the 2k26 class 3-1 in the Freshers’ Welcome match and secured victories over Veterinary Medicine (4-3) while holding Pharmacy and Dentistry to 2-2 draws. In basketball, they stunned the 2k24 class with a 6-4 win, and three of their female players played a key role in UI’s Inter-Faculty Basketball Competition, where they finished second.

UIMSAites also shone on the national and continental stages. At the National Schools Teams Chess Championship, Abraham Oguntona and Blessing Akporherhe represented UI, securing a commendable 5th-place finish out of 38 teams. Abraham’s performance was particularly outstanding, earning him a bronze medal on Board 1. Meanwhile, at the All-African University Games (FASU), Simeon Okojie and Abraham added more medals to UI’s tally, each claiming two bronze medals across chess and scrabble.

Then came the NiMSA Games—an event that truly tested UIMSA’s mettle. Despite limited financial support, UIMSAites delivered a spectacular performance, finishing 4th on the medal table with 14 medals (6 Gold, 5 Silver, and 8 Bronze). The star of the tournament? Aduragbemi Oludehinwa, also known as Aquaman, who singlehandedly dominated the swimming events, winning four gold medals in the 50m Backstroke, 50m Freestyle, 100m Backstroke, and 100m Freestyle. Okpara Charles added another gold in male table tennis, while Emmanuel Soriwei sprinted his way to gold in the 400m. The football teams narrowly missed out on the top prize, both securing silver medals. Other standout performers included Chidinma Onyiuke (silver, Women’s Javelin), Abigail Oyedokun (silver, Women’s Ayo), and Emmanuel Soriwei (silver, Men’s Long Jump).

In the ABH League, UIMSA’s presence was felt across multiple teams. Gladiators FC, featuring Karbon, Teslim, and David Akinnusoye, lifted the league trophy, marking Karbon’s third consecutive ABH League title. Meanwhile, Blazers FC, boasting the likes of Ramoni, Hollandia, Habeeb, Istanbul, and Fuhad, secured the FA Cup. Notably, Habeeb was recognized with Dr Aire’s FA Award for the Most Valuable Player, while Mustapha Fagbenro, coach of Gladiators FC, was named in the Team of the Season.

As the curtain begins to close on an eventful year, Ulympics ‘25 has already begun, setting the stage for even more unforgettable moments. In volleyball, the semi-finals has taken centre stage with four teams: 2k26, 2k23, 2k21, and 2k24 all in contention. Basketball has also been fiercely competitive, with 2k21, 2k23, 2k25, and 2k27 advancing to the final four. Meanwhile, 2k26 were the earliest team to get knocked out of the male category of the football tournament after two disappointing 2-0 losses against 2k24 and 2k21. In the female category, 2k24 have been knocked out of the competition after failing to show up for their matches, granting 2k21 and 2k26 walkover wins.

Looking back, this year has been nothing short of phenomenal for UIMSA. Against all odds, they have redefined expectations, proving that even the busiest medics can dominate the sporting world. With fresh talents emerging and a growing legacy in university sports, the future is bright. As Ulympics ‘25 continues, one thing is certain—UIMSA is not done making history.

From the visual spectacle it offers spectators to the emotions it stirs in participants—the ecstasy, the passion—it is a complete package, we must admit. Within the walls of the University of Ibadan, the said importance of sports hasn’t changed one bit and one factor that has helped this is the diversity of sports in the university, including football, table tennis, volleyball, basketball, athletics, lawn tennis, judo, hockey, etc.

When a sport is met with oblivion and indifference, gradual decline is inevitable, continuing until it ultimately comes to a halt. This is not very much different from what happened to UI’s hockey team. Hockey, a sport in the Premier University that once hovered on the brink of extinction, has now been revived. How has it been since they came back on track? What has the experience been like? What challenges have they encountered? What are their goals?

The AFAS Press had an interview with Samuel Oluwafunmibi Adeoye, a graduate from the department of Human Kinetics in the just concluded 2022/2023 academic session. Speaking to the Press, he mentioned that he had joined the school’s hockey team in 2023 and became the captain around the same time, explaining further that the hockey team had been functioning for several years till the last coach travelled, bringing an end to the life of the sport in school.

In his words, the hockey team was revived and reformed by his class, “We were offering a 300-level course, Skills Development and Techniques in Hockey, the lecturer in charge admonished us to do something about the hockey team, so we just took it up”. Samuel mentioned that initially it was just his classmates on the team, after which some people who had knowledge of the sport pre-university joined. This also drew the attention of people who had some interest in the game and were willing to know how to play well. The manner of reform accounts for the high percentage of players in the hockey team being from the department of Human Kinetics.

The team’s current coach, Dr. O. Adisa, is assisted by Mr. Elisha, a former captain of the team. The team trains on Wednesdays and Fridays by 4pm, and Saturdays by 7am. According to Samuel, training comprises a separate session for those learning the basics, a normal session for those that are relatively more familiar with the sport, fitness trainings for everyone and mini games amongst the players. “There are rules in hockey, these rules are paramount, we must know and follow these rules for safety and success as a team, we learn these rules too in training”, Samuel said. Although there is a female team, it is not as well-formed or prominent as the male team. However, training is mixed, with everyone training together.

UI Hockey Team lining up before a friendly game against Rocket Hockey Academy in 2023.
Speaking further to the Press, Samuel stated some challenges that the team has faced so far, ranging from being sidelined in certain spheres to the unavailability of training spaces. He explained that the team faces a lot of issues sharing the pitch with football players, and it is worse if they meet the players on the pitch as it is always impossible to negotiate/get any space. He also said that they were told to resort to first come, first serve, which they did, but still faced pressure from football players who don’t allow them to maximise their training time. “Several times, I have had to leave my hall as early as 5:30 am on Saturdays just to be able to secure a spot on the pitch”, he said.

He further mentioned how most people termed hockey as “not viable” in the university as an excuse not to regard the people who are interested in it. The school’s sports council have intervened many times for them to secure a place to train.

When asked about the disadvantages of not having a hockey pitch and the satisfaction level from the makeshift pitch, Samuel explained that the team struggle sometimes in training due to the lack of a standard hockey pitch, he also mentioned that the makeshift pitch had only little resemblance to an actual hockey pitch, “Even the grass at Awo’s new Stadium is not conducive enough, we need a field with rightly trimmed grasses, artificial or natural, we adapting to playing on sand is not really good”. About equipment, there’s no adequacy, the team needs better hockey sticks and an improved goalkeeper’s kit. “If we want to win medals, which is our ultimate goal, we need better equipment”.

When asked about if the non-permissible left-handed sticks in field hockey affect left-handed players, Samuel clarified that being left-handed is not a disadvantage; in fact, it can provide an edge in certain aspects of training. He used the opportunity to call on interested persons to join the team, “Joining the hockey team is as simple as ABC, we have a WhatsApp group, the link is usually shared from time to time, once you join ensure physical presence at our trainings and with consistency you become good at the game”. Here is a direct link to the WhatsApp group.

Currently, there are no intra-school competitions, but the team is engaged in external competitions, including their ongoing participation in the bilateral games in Ghana.

The bilateral games involve a series of competitions between the University of Ibadan and the University of Ghana. It is aimed at strengthening ties and fostering unity between both institutions. The first leg of the bilateral games had taken place here in the University of Ibadan in April and it included table tennis, cricket, handball, and a debate at Trenchard Hall. The second leg of the bilateral games is currently on at the University of Ghana, Legon. From the 23rd of June, it’ll be a week-long event comprising of judo, badminton, hockey and debate. UI’s hockey team are participating as representatives of the University of Ibadan with the goal of defeating their opponents on their home soil. Samuel also mentioned to the press that the hockey team have the NUGA games (Nigeria University Games Association) and WAUG (West African University Games) in sight. So far, the team has had no medals or records, hopefully, this changes in the nearest future.

Rounding off his session with the Press, Samuel reiterated how grateful he is to the school’s sport council for their timely interventions and to all those that have always believed in the hockey team. This team finds itself at square one—not for the first time, but at a promising moment. They have their minds set on rising and soaring again, their perseverance through their current challenges might be a harbinger of what is to come, time will tell.

Since its inception in 1957, the Africa Cup of Nations has produced 15 different champions over 34 editions, with a few teams distinguishing themselves through consistent dominance and lifting the coveted trophy on multiple occasions.

With 24 qualified teams, the 35th edition is set to take place in Morocco from December 21, 2025, to January 16, 2026. We delve into the most successful African teams in AFCON history, exploring their achievements, and their enduring legacy in Africa’s premier football tournament.

Egypt - The Pharaohs (7 Titles)

With a record seven titles, Egypt defeated Ethiopia 4-0 in the final to claim the AFCON trophy in 1957: a tournament which had comprised of the finalists, and Sudan. Egypt successfully defended their title two years later, asserting their early dominance in African football.

The Egyptians would go on to win the title in 1986 and 1998. However, their most iconic era came between 2006 and 2010, when Egypt became the first and only nation to win three consecutive AFCON titles. Victories in 2006 (as hosts), 2008, and 2010 extended their record to seven championships, a feat unmatched to this day.

Again, The Pharaohs of Egypt has been runners-up on three occasions (1962, 2017, and 2021) and secured third-place finishes in 1963, 1970, and 1974, solidifying their status as Africa’s most formidable football powerhouse.

Cameroon – The Indomitable Lions (5 Titles)

Cameroon follow closely, with five AFCON titles to their name. Having debuted in the tournament in 1970, Cameroon clinched their first trophy in 1984 and successfully defended it in 1988 after losing the final to Sudan two years earlier.

The team’s golden era unfolded in the early 2000s, when they secured back-to-back AFCON titles in 2000 and 2002, becoming the second team to achieve the feat after Ghana. Their fifth and most recent triumph came in 2017 when they defeated Egypt 2-1 in the final, etching their name to the tournament's history.

At the centre of Cameroon’s dominance is the legendary striker Samuel Eto’o, who holds the record for the most goals scored in AFCON history with 18 goals across six editions. Eto’o’s brilliance, coupled with the presence of other talented players like Roger Milla and Rigobert Song, has cemented Cameroon’s legacy in as one of Africa’s most formidable football powerhouses.

Ghana - The Black Stars (4 Titles)

The Black Stars of Ghana were the first to make history as consecutive AFCON winners, claiming their first title as hosts in 1963 and defending it in 1965. They also became the first nation to win three titles and, as a result, secured permanent ownership of the original trophy—the Abdulaziz Abdullah Salem Trophy—in 1978. Ghana added a fourth title in 1982 after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Libya.

The African giants have also finished among the top four a record 14 times, including five second place finishes.

Nigeria - The Super Eagles (3 Titles)

The Super Eagles of Nigeria have had a bittersweet relationship with AFCON, combining moments of brilliance with near-misses. They have won the trophy three times—1980, 1994, and 2013—and finished as runners-up five times, most recently in 2023, where they fell 2-1 to Ivory Coast in Abidjan.

Despite these setbacks, Nigeria boasts a remarkable record of 16 top-three finishes, featuring some of Africa's finest football players, including current stars like Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, who continue to light up the football scenes in Europe and at home. Despite the narrow misses, the Super Eagles’ journey in the African cup of Nations is marked by moments of triumph and dominance that have cemented their status as one of Africa’s most formidable teams to reckon with.

Ivory Coast: The Elephants (3 Titles)

Ivory Coast have also claimed three AFCON titles. The nation lifted the trophy for the first time in 1992, then again in 2015, with their most recent victory in 2024 when they came from behind to defeat Nigeria 2-1 on home soil.
With 25 tournament appearances, Ivory Coast has also finished as runners-up twice (2006 and 2012) and claimed third place four times. Their legacy is one of resilience, reflecting their consistent presence at the top of African football.

Other teams that lifted the afcon trophy more times include algeria (1990, and 2019) and DR congo (1968, and 1974).

Since its inception in Ghana in 1974, the All-African University Games (FASU Games) have served as a platform for uniting Africa’s finest university athletes, inspiring the next generation of sportsmen and women from across the continent. The 11th edition of the games, held between September 20th and 29th, 2024, marked a significant milestone as Nigeria hosted the tournament for the first time in two separate locations – the University of Lagos (UNILAG) and Lagos State University (LASU). With 15 medal events and over 1,000 athletes from 35 countries, the FASU Games have cemented their place as Africa’s premier multi-sport event for student athletes.

The 2024 edition was particularly memorable for the American University in Cairo (AUC) who won the highest number of medals during the 2024 FASU games, with the majority being won by the swimming team. Athletes representing the AUC amassed an impressive number of 81 medals; 46 gold - 39 of them being won by AUC swimmers - including 27 silvers, and 8 bronze. The AUC 28-men team secured medals in Judo, Karate, Tennis, Taekwondo, Table tennis, Chess, and Swimming, and just like they did in Nairobi, two years ago, AUC once again dominated the pool in Lagos.

AUC SWIMMERS LEAD THE CHARGE

While swimming at the 2024 FASU Games concluded on Sunday, among the standout performers were 21-year-old Kenzy Sherif and 22-year-old Zaid Ahmed, whose combined efforts contributed significantly to AUC’s record-breaking medal haul. Both athletes competed in their second FASU Games, having also participated in the 2022 edition in Nairobi, Kenya.

Kenzy, who began her swimming career at 17, competed in the 50m butterfly and two relay events in Lagos, winning gold and silver medals. Reflecting on her journey, she emphasized the importance of team spirit:
"Here in the swimming team at AUC – my teammates and our coach – there is a spirit that coexists between us. That connection binds us together every time, and it has been my biggest motivation coming into this tournament," she shared. For Kenzy, the FASU Games are another milestone in a career that has seen her represent AUC at various national and international competitions, including the 49th National University Tournament in Egypt in 2021.

Zaid, on the other hand, had a transformative experience in Lagos. Competing in four races on the final day alone, he secured a silver medal in the 200m butterfly and a gold in the 100m freestyle earlier in the week. “The competition was only in four days, and every day I had a minimum of two races, sometimes more. Like today, I had four races, three individual races and one relay,” He noted.

Despite coming to Lagos during a difficult phase in his life and career and in spite of the demanding schedule, Zaid viewed the tournament as an opportunity to reassess his passion for the sport: "I have been facing some challenges which made me consider quitting swimming for a while. I wasn’t feeling so passionate or happy swimming back home, but competing in this game reignited that passion for me," he said.

Zaid’s rigorous routine reflects the demands of balancing academics and athletics. As an Integrated Marketing Communication student at AUC, he starts his day at 4:30 a.m., attending morning practice before heading to classes that stretch into the afternoon. After lunch, it’s back to training in the evening—a schedule that leaves little time for rest but underscores his commitment to excellence. For student athletes, pursuits of academic excellence and athletic development is often characterized with unyielding demands which requires a unique blend of commitment, adequate training, and time management. Between practice, games, competitions, and academics, it can be difficult to find time for everything, which further crystallizes the importance of creating an effective schedule that accommodates, both education and profession

BEHIND THE SUCCESS: COACH SHEHAB YOUNIS

The driving force behind AUC’s swimming dominance is head coach Shehab Younis, a former swimmer and 2012 Olympic gold medalist. Since taking the helm two years ago, Shehab has transformed the team into a continental powerhouse. Shehab joined AUC two years ago leading them to their first All-African University Games in Nairobi, Kenya in 2022, winning 22 gold medals in swimming for a total of 68 medals: 29 gold, 22 silvers, and 18 bronze, to win first place, contributing to Egypt’s top position in the country’s medal standing.

For Shehab, mental preparation is as critical as physical training for young athletes, especially student athletes. “Mental awareness and mental preparation for young swimmers are so hard,” He said. “While it is easier to train swimmers and make them prepare physically, to get them to be mentally ready, is hard, and we do so by setting some targets and goals to achieve. That way they become more focused, and mentally alert.”

At the Lagos tournament, Shehab’s team surpassed even their own ambitious targets. "There are forty-two medal categories in swimming, and our target was to win more than thirty-five golds. We ended up with thirty-nine," he proudly noted.

LOOKING AHEAD

With the FASU Games having come to a close, the AUC swimming team is already gearing up for their next challenge—the World Inter-Universities Championship in Rome, Italy, next month. The team, which has expanded its roster with the addition of eight new swimmers since Nairobi, is determined to continue their streak of success on the international stage. "We are putting our focus on that tournament now," Shehab remarked.
For athletes like Kenzy and Zaid, the journey in Lagos was not just about medals; it was a reminder of the resilience, camaraderie, and passion that define their careers. As Zaid put it:
"This competition was a huge challenge to know where I stand in my program, and it has reignited my drive to compete at a professional level."

The 2024 FASU Games underscored the American University in Cairo’s commitment to nurturing Africa’s next generation of sports stars. With their remarkable performance in Lagos, the AUC swimming team not only added to their legacy but they also served as an inspiration for many young athletes across the African continent.

The University of Ibadan has at the close of the 11th All-African University Games, organized by the Federation of Africa University Sports (FASU), and jointly hosted by the University of Lagos, and the Lagos State University from the 20th – 29th of September, 2024, amassed a total of 12 medals.

First held in 1974 in Ghana, the All-African University Games, organized by FASU, is targeted at developing, and promoting sporting activities among students across various Universities in Africa. In 2004, for the first time, Nigeria played host to the tournament at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, ATBU, Bauchi, and two decades later, the nation would once again play host to the FASU Games becoming the first country to host the continental sports competition in two different locations — University of Lagos (UNILAG) and Lagos State University (LASU).

Representing the University of Ibadan at the 11th edition of the competition in Lagos, the representatives won a total of 12 medals across three categories; Chess, Scrabble and Taekwondo. In the Taekwondo category, Adetunji Sunday finished with a gold medal; on the other hand, for the chess category, UI finished with six medals, with the only gold coming from Ojo Blessing.

Furthermore, for the scrabble competitions, a total of 5 medals were won (one silver and 4 bronze). Enyi Emmanuel and Adetunji Sunday both clinched silver in the male doubles event, and further won bronze in a team event with the duo of Sunday and Emmanuel alongside Simeon Okojie. Moreso, both Funmilola Kelani and Enyi Emmanuel won a bronze medal each in their respective categories.

Speaking about her experience in Lagos, Funmilola Kelani noted delightfully that the experience was a great one, albeit stressful. According to her, in relation to the performance of the school, “We tried our best.” She further explained that issues like commuting between the hosting Universities, the accreditation process as well as the timing of the event (coming in the middle of exams), stressed the contingents. However, she lauded the judging of the competition as well as most of the facilities that were used.

In his own right, Adetunji Sunday, while commending the efforts of the organizers, spoke about the team, saying that the “Performance was so great. I won the first gold medal for the school in my sports. I appreciate the efforts of my coach, Grandmaster Osita Egwim in training me for the competition and also his guidance during my fights.”

While both Funmilola and Sunday appraised the accommodation positively, they equally noted that the contingent had stressful issues with the distance between the place of accommodation (UNILAG) and the venue where most of the games took place (LASU).

In spite of this, Funmilola Kelani went on to plead that better conditions and considerations should be given to athletes by the UI management. She made this plea in relation to the fact that while they were officially representing the school at a competition of such high pedestal, some of them still had to shuttle, in-between, back to the University of Ibadan to sit for certain papers. She further stressed that such experience demotivated the team to a considerable extent, and even caused one of them to forfeit some games. She hoped that subsequently, better considerations are provided for athletes representing the school.

Present at the event was the Egyptian Minister of Youth and Sport and President of FASU, Ashraf Sobhy, alongside other dignitaries like the President of the Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA), Mohammed Bawa, the representative of the Minister of Sports, Ms Mbora and the Vice Chancellors of both LASU and UNILAG. Over 11 countries across Africa were well represented; Kenya, Egypt, Botswana, Ghana, Tanzania, Mauritius, Uganda, Guinea, Angola, Zambia, amongst others.

The stage is set, the UISU Super Cup starts today, and many football lovers are ready to feast. The Old SUB pitch is set to be filled to the brim again as 14 departments will be hoisting the flag of 14 faculties while the fans cheer on.

The Super Cup is the first of its kind; modeled exactly after the FIFA Club World Cup, where the winners of the last Dean's Cup from each faculties will be squaring against each other in one-legged knockout games.

If there was at least one thing the last SEALS Cup showed, it is that UI, apart from her leading role in the Nigerian academia space, is also a fertile land for football talents. As the Super Cup kick starts today, here are the top ten best players to look out for.

10. Oshobue Robin Oshozie aka Robinson

Robinson is a 300 Level student of the department of Animal Science. Majorly a left winger, he has represented his department at two editions of the SEALS Cup.

While his performances for Animal Science has relatively not been too impressive in the SEALS Cup, he can boast in his recently concluded Sigma Chief's League gold medal being a major feature for SFA.

9. Oyewole Gbenga Emmanuel aka Sulphur

Sulphur is a versatile player who can play as a fullback and as a holding midfielder. He is a 300 level student of Wildlife and Ecotourism, and also an important figure for UI Pioneer, while he also dons his Sigma Chief's League Silver medal.

8. Olusola Segun Boluwatife pka John

John is a central defender and a 300L Microbiology student. He is an astute defender who can be trusted at the back.

As a captain, he earns the trust of his teammates at the back for his aerial prowess and the ability to clear his lines.

He led an underdog Microbiology team that battled it out against MBBS at the 2023 SEALS Cup RO16, forcing the game to a penalty shootout, although, Microbiology would later succumb to MBBS during the penalties.

7. Odunukan Gbemiga aka Bobby Jay

Bobby Jay is a 300 Level Student of Human Nutrition. He was a main figure for Human Nutrition in the last Provost Cup when they beat a fully stacked MBBS to the gold medal.

As the team's goalkeeper, Odunukan gave Human Nutrition the glory by stepping up to save numerous penalties, earning him the competition's MVP (most valuable player).

He is also a Survival Cup silver medalist and currently Indy Hall's Sports Commissioner.

Bobby Jay can also step up for his team when needed as a defender.

6. Adesina Daniel pka Oscar

His two goals for KHE as a midfielder in the just concluded NUESA Dean's Cup is a testament to his significance for KHE in their Dean's Cup triumph.

Oscar's winning spree goes beyond KHE, as he also was a member of the 2021 Zik Hall team that won the 2021 Inter Hall as an 100 level student. He was also a part of the Zik Hall team that won the INFINIX FIVE-A-SIDE competition.

Daniel currently serves in Zik as the Halls' Sports Minister.

5. Ogunleye John pka JohnTomi

If there is an amazing record JohnTomi has, it is that being a 500 level student of Mechanical Engineering, he has won the Faculty of Technology's Dean's Cup four times as a striker.

While Mechanical Engineering's outing in the last SEALS Cup was one to forget, both for Mech and JohnTomi himself, he can be consoled by his Gala Cup Winner's medal.

Ogunleye is also an Inter Faculty Bronze medalist, and also an important player of UI Pioneer.

In a Mechanical Engineering team that looks shaky, JohnTomi should be a player the team can count on.

4. Awolowo Oluwadamilare pka Awolowo

Awolowo is a 400 Level attacking-midfielder for Philosophy. He was an integral member of Philosophy's popular Plato Academy. He was nominated for player of the tournament in the 2022 SEALS Cup where Philosophy lost to Geography in the final in a penalty shootout.

Awolowo would later win the MVP in the 2023 SEALS Cup while Philosophy would also later win the gold medal in a similar shootout against Political Science with Awolowo's late freekick handing Plato Academy a lifeline at the death.

Awolowo has also won the Faculty of Arts Dean's Cup twice, AFAS Super 4 trophy twice, INFINIX 5-Aside gold medal, Zik Hall Interfloor gold medal and other titles.

3. Benjamin Adekunle aka Karbon

Karbon is that winger you would peeing in your pants defending. Known for his beastlike work-rate and his ability to press any defender with high intensity, Karbon is also a fast runner with the ball, with his short frame giving him a low center of gravity to keep the ball while at high speed.

In a seemingly Karbon fashion, he scored the only goal in MBBS 1-0 win in their quarterfinal game against IPE in the last SEALS Cup.

As a 500 Level student of MBBS, Karbon has won every ABH tournament, SEALS Cup bronze medal and a Provost Cup silver medal.

2. Elkana Ayuba aka Pogba

Pogba is the only Postgraduate student in this list for a reason. He is the most active postgraduate student in UI football. He was a central figure for Political Science in their 2023 SEALS Cup first runner-up finish.

Pogba was also a main figure for PG Hall in their INFINIX 5-Aside silver medal win.

As a defensive midfielder, Pogba's tall and imposing frame makes him an outstanding ball-winner, while he also excels at playing as a Regista, starting plays from the middle of the park.

In 2021, Pogba also won the FATSSSA Dean's Cup and the Inter Faculty Tournament.

Pogba would prove to be important again for Political Science as they go on in their quest in UI football.

1. Agbetuyi John aka Papi

Undisputed as numero uno for numerous reasons-- 2022 Seals Cup Golden boot winner, UI School team's striker, scored 5 goals for Philosophy in the 2023 SEALS Cup (4 in the knockouts).

A 300 Level student of Philosophy, Papi was already a main player for Philosophy since his 100 level days, and he has only gotten better since then.

Papi has won one AFAS Dean's Cup trophy, two AFAS Super 4 trophy, SEALS Cup silver medal, SEALS Cup gold medal, one-time SEALS Cup golden boot.

His athletic frame makes him a good header of the ball, while his speed and his dribbling ability makes him able to operate from the flanks as an explosive winger, where he was deployed most times in the last SEALS Cup.

Goodluck to your defense when Papi runs at it.

Many young athletes desire to play for their favourite football teams, in front of thousands of fans and with hopes to one day share the pitch with players who inspired them. While a number of football players have gone ahead to achieve this feat as seen on TV screens and the internet, from the image of owning fast cars, living in mansions to going on holidays in private yacht, the path to an illustrious footballing career is not as easy as it seems. The journey of an athlete towards a professional footballing career comprises several realities, many of which escape the lenses of the media. Hence, it is important that a strategic approach that prioritizes not just athletic prowess, but also academic excellence, mental and emotional resilience, and financial literacy must be at the fore.

Truly, football has distinguished itself over the years as the best sport, with no other sport coming close to rivaling the passion that dominates the atmosphere of stadiums during matches and the anticipation and rigour leading up to weekend games. Football has for years united millions of individuals off the pitch and produced hundreds of legends on it. Besides the unity and diversity it brings, football is also seen as a source of millions and a glamorous lifestyle for athletes. Nonetheless, while the chances of securing professional contracts with professional clubs is a real possibility, for many, particularly youngsters who idolize players in the mainstream league, the chances are often very slim.

ANALYZING THE ODDS: A REALITY CHECK

While pursuing a career in professional football comes with a kilogramme of benefits, with it are tons of realities and demands. The professional football industry is highly competitive, with millions of young players competing for a limited number of spots available in top teams [1]. This ocean of competitors creates a sense of urgency in young players to give their absolute best and win the favour of coaches in order to secure a starting position in the team. And the harsh reality remains that, for every talent discovered, there are hundreds of players forced to leave behind what is often regarded as a misguided dream.

The journey of a professional football player begins from an early age; contrary to popular belief, one cannot simply chase a footballing career out of the blues, especially now that it has become impossible to get signed by a professional football clubs when one reaches a certain age. On February 25th, 2024, Liverpool beat Chelsea to win the Carabao cup at Wembley [2]. However, the story of Liverpool's triumph over Chelsea will not be complete without the mention of teenage academy players who took up the baton of responsibility after the team lost eleven members of the senior squad to injury to beat Chelsea's $1 billion team. Now, Liverpool are believed to be sitting on a goldmine worth €300 million. This came after manager, Jurgen Klopp, showing the courage of his conviction, decided to field “kids” who were yet to train with the senior squad and in the end, fortune favoured the brave.

With that, football clubs have gradually and intentionally become obsessed with grooming athletes from an early age in order to produce athletes with the clubs DNA who will go on to sustain an era of success at the club [1]. On the flip side, are young footballers chasing that dream - a dream that not only comprises the pursuit of a career in their beloved sports with a possibility of a glamorous lifestyle in their teenage years but also compels them to adjust to the required lifestyle of a professional footballer. The transition from a carefree life to a life characterized by rigorous trainings, and a regulated diet, can be challenging for young players. In terms of personal development, young players often sacrifice education to focus on their football career, which in turn limits their options outside the sport and places a significant emphasis on their success in the game. The player is left with the stark reality of what awaits, should he fail. It’s literally sink or swim.

EDUCATION. FOOTBALL. FAMILY: ANALYZING THE THREE-PRONGED SOLUTION

Despite the complexities of professional football, it is feasible and also practicable to combine football aspirations with academic pursuit. In September, 2022 England-born Nigerian, Ethan Nwaneri was just 15 years old when he became the Premier League's youngest ever player at Arsenal. As revealed by Alexander Tordios, Ethan's headteacher at St John's School in England, the boy's greatest asset are his parents. Being the best support system, Ethan's parents are dedicated to supporting him in every way possible. They consider education as “the safety net”, and follow closely on the now 17-year-old academic performance [3]. While pursuing a football career is important, academic excellence should also be of equal importance. Ethan's parents underscore the fact that families play a crucial role in ensuring the player's academic excellence without compromising the football career.

Footballers may not have the reputation for intelligence, but some players have proven that they have brains, on top of their talents. In this spectrum stands former Manchester City captain, Vincent Kompany, who has a Master's Degree in Business Administration from Alliance University in Manchester [4]. And it was not much of a surprise when he took up the managerial role at Anderlecht. Mathieu Flamini, a former AC Milan player also combined his passion for football with his interest in Chemistry and holds a degree in Chemical Engineering. He now runs a sustainable energy company, which is estimated by experts to worth $22.23 billion in the future [5]. A strong academic background will equip athletes with skills valuable beyond the field of play including journalism, broadcasting, management or coaching, should injuries threaten to consume their career. Hence, education is not a luxury that athletes can afford to do without. It is not even just a necessity but a must for every athlete that seeks continuity after retirement. It is not a suicide mission to combine education with football pursuit and this mandate cannot be handled with levity.

LOW WAGES AND DELAYED PAYMENTS: THE REALITY OF SALARIES AND PAYCHECKS

Football players often see professional football as not just a passion but as an escape route, and with this, I am reminded of top football players who emerged from humble beginnings, from the poor streets of the Brazilian favela. Neymar, Ronaldo Nazario and Ronaldinho, despite their passion, play football to escape the vices that come with growing up poor. The inflated salaries that some players in the high rank of professional football earn is a major driving force that attracts youngsters to play the sport or even propell parents to force their children to play. But the truth remains that top earning footballers - especially those in Europe and Arabian topflight- are in the minority- a reality that remains obscure to young athletes. Not every professional footballer earn millions of dollars, has mansions or cars from different brands and oftentimes, teams do not respect contracts and delay players’ payments.

Fans of Nigerian football will recall the call-out by the Super Falcons against the Nigerian Football Federation in 2023. With claims of “being treated as slaves” by the NFF, delay in payment of camp wages and match bonuses from at least two years and blacklisting of players who challenge the status quo [6], these allegations mirror the harsh realities some professional footballers encounter in the sport. It is often worse for footballers in the local scene despite their potential. Though ranked as the best in Africa in 2012, the Nigerian Professional Football League is woefully failing at a high indices. The fortune of players and the enthusiasm of aspiring talents to play in the league have gone downhill since the 1980s. Reference to this is the persistent owning of players’ salaries and this problem has only worsened with the growing influence of clubs in Europe, China, Saudi Arabia and elsewhere, leading to a drain of football talents from the country, including former Sunshine Stars, Okiki Afolabi and former Nigeria U-23 winger, Daniel Etor snubbed Nigerian clubs to ply their trade with Ethiopian side Jimma Aba Jifar and Saudi's Al Nassr, respectively [7].

FINANCIAL LITERACY: PLANNING BEYOND THE PAYCHECK

Though luxurious on the surface, professional football is often characterized by a unique financial landscape. Being a sport with a limited lifespan, athletes could find themselves at the brink of bankruptcy after hanging their boots. Professional footballers, with the help of family members, and financial experts must be aware of the realities of salaries, taxes, budgeting, career longevity and the need to prepare for life after football. Young players in professional football are often tempted by the prospects of an extravagant lifestyle. Quite a number of high-earning footballers have declared bankruptcy years after retirement. In this trope stands Ronaldinho, a football legend who was reported bankrupt in 2023, owing a huge tax debt, despite being one of the top earners of the game during his days at Barcelona and Inter Milan [8]. Ostensibly, it is easy to get lost in the euphoria of a new life, with millions as salaries, but that could be averted with insights from experts about the financial realities of the game.

MENTAL TOUGHNESS: BUILDING THE INNER GAME

A novel reality of the life of a professional footballer remains that the battle is not only fought on the field, but it is also waged in the depths of the mind. The roaring of fans, the unending scrutiny, the weight of intense pressure to surpass expectations, could take a toll on the player and threaten to consume the most promising talents. With the advancement in technology, and the presence of social media, athletes cannot escape the constant fixation from football fans. The aftermath of the AFCON 2023 final highlights the barrage of hate speech hurled at Alex Iwobi, following Nigeria's 2-1 loss to Ivory Coast, and that was just one of the many incidents of the midfielder being scapegoated by trolls on the internet [9]. Acknowledging the weight of challenges and developing strategies to cope with the pressure, managing anxiety and staying positive in the face of adversity will help young athletes navigate the emotional rollercoaster that accompanies a professional football career.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the journey of a footballer on a quest for professional football pursuits is often fraught with a series of complexities, many of which are often untold. From the competitiveness of the football landscape, the essence of education, the possibility of bankruptcy and the need to develop mental resilience, athletes must be aware of the harsh realities of a professional football career and how to navigate them. From advocating for the child's academic success, providing unwavering support, to cultivating a supportive and realistic environment, parents play a crucial role in assisting young football players navigate through these complexities and help them stay focused in high-stakes situations.

Although challenging, the path to a professional football career becomes less dauting when a football player possesses a strong support system of families, friends and teammates and the ability to maintain a resilient mindset while striving for excellence.

REFERENCE

1. https://syndication.bleacherreport.com/amp/66021-professional-football-chasing-an-impossible-dream.amp.html

2. https://www.goal.com/en-ng/lists/conor-bradley-ben-doak-liverpool-academy-stars-jurgen-klopp/blt3d8b44766e7c3bd0

3. https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11095/12702010/ethan-nwaneri-inside-the-rise-of-the-arsenal-teenager-15-who-became-the-youngest-ever-premier-league-player#amp_ct=1715012569349&amp_tf=From%20%251%24s&aoh=17150110467537&referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com&ampshare=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.skysports.com%2Ffootball%2Fnews%2F11095%2F12702010%2Fethan-nwaneri-inside-the-rise-of-the-arsenal-teenager-15-who-became-the-youngest-ever-premier-league-player

4. https://www.goal.com/en-ng/lists/footballers-with-degrees-kompany-mata--10-players-who-went-to-university/196q7i1qbyhjs1nl24xafcdc80#cs36f0b6e8bd08be1e

5. https://www.onlinegooner.com/articles/view/arsenal-players-who-combined-studies-and-sports-careers#:~:text=Mathieu%20Flamini%20is%20a%20former,sustainable%20energy%20company%2C%20GF%20Biochemicals.

6. https://theathletic.com/4898797/2023/09/30/nigeria-womens-world-cup-wages/

7. https://punchng.com/we-play-on-empty-stomachs-borrow-money-to-eat-nigerian-footballers/

8. https://www.dailystar.co.uk/sport/football/ronaldinho-world-cup-football-brazil-24158112

9. https://www.aljazeera.com/features/2024/2/13/nigeria-iwobi-cyberbullying-after-afcon