Nigerian punch for Kozhikode football
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Three years ago when they arrived in India from the scenic city of Lagos in Nigeria, only one thing was on their mind - to play good football.
When they joined the Kochi-based second division club Josco FC four months ago, they felt they were closer to their dream until financial trouble pulled the team apart.
Pedro Inegbeniki, Igwe Nnaemeka Johnson and Emmanuel Aja, however, kept their faith in the beautiful game and their patience was rewarded when they got a call from Quartz Soccer Academy to join their soon-to-be-launched team from Kozhikode.
In a freewheeling chat, the footballers expressed their disappointment about leaving Josco and opened up on their expectations about the team in the making.
“It is sad that Josco FC has decided to release its players. Had the team stayed together for a couple of seasons, we would have made it to the I-League,” said striker Pedro, who along with his midfielder friend Johnson, had joined Josco from Akbar Travels, while defender Emmanuel had come from Malabar United, during the transfer in August.
“There is a great level difference in the football played in Nigeria and here but the game is developing in India.
“The players here are skilled and have started playing some ‘physical game’, but it is also important to have good coaches,” said Emmanuel.
Though the plight of Josco had dampened their spirits, the god-fearing footballers are optimistic about the job that awaits them. “We are told that (Quartz) is an ambitious management and I’m sure if they decide to retain the players for a few seasons the team will make an impact in India,” said Igwe Nnaemeka Johnson.
“The people here are really nice. How is the crowd in Kozhikode?” Johnson asks and he is happy to hear about Malabar’s football frenzy.
“In Nigeria, football is very popular, there are many clubs and the people follow the game a lot,” said Emmanuel.
Meanwhile, P. Haridas, CEO of Quartz Soccer Academy, said, “We liked their attitude. We have also picked such young and vibrant players. A German coach will join us soon .Our mission is to build a fresh team.”
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