By Aderonke Ojo
Messengers of Peace (MOP) Stars Football Academy in Abuja showcased their raw talent and defensive discipline in a goalless draw against the Golden Eaglets, Nigeria’s Under-17 national team, in a test match at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium.
According to Head Coach Toyin Lawal, the match was a testament to the team’s potential, despite being relatively new.
“ We are still a new team with a lot of work ahead, but it’s a joyful thing that we were able to match the Golden Eaglets,” Lawal said.
He expressed confidence that his players would go on to represent Nigeria well.
Captain Edeh Ernest described the match as intense, pitting two strong teams against each other.
Despite losing 1-0 in the first leg, MOP FC regrouped and came back stronger, determined to win. Ernest commended the national team while praising his teammates for improving on past mistakes.
Stakeholder Mr. Ekpang Adejoh commended the team’s discipline and raw talent, highlighting the importance of nurturing young players.
“Fantastic defensive discipline, strong midfield play — and from street footballers — yet they held a national U-17 side to a goalless draw. That’s remarkable,” Adejoh said.
Adejoh urged the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to organize competitions between academies to identify and nurture young talent, emphasizing the need to look beyond traditional football structures.
He believes the academy, despite being less than a year old, has made extraordinary progress and could produce future Super Eagles stars like Jay-Jay Okocha or Kanu Nwankwo with dedication and support.