Sporting Lagos Football Academy Technical Director Paul Aibogu says the team exceeded expectations at the recently concluded Gothia Cup in Gothenburg, Sweden.
The former Nigeria national team handler who was present at the team’s games in Gothenburg revealed that the boys came to participate and gain some experience in the tournament but had an impressive podium finish, clinching the title.
Sporting Lagos beat Japanese side FC Tokyo 4-0 in the final after beating fellow Nigerian side Beyond Limits 5-4 in the semifinals.
“I think it is really impressive coming here,” he said to Myleaguewire in an interview.
“We came to participate, you know we thought we were going to do well being the first time a lot of the kids got there first exposure. It was a kind of learning process but they really did a great job and we give them a lot of credit, and the coaching staff.”
Aibogu acknowledged the character exhibited in the games against Beyond Limits showcased their resilience. At half time, Sporting Lagos was leading 3-1 before the Ikenne boys netted two in a row to set the match at per again in the second half.
“You know of course when you are winning a game and the other team starts coming back the pressure comes on you but I think the boys handle the pressure so well. That was the game that really showed there strength and what they could do.
“I really want to give credit to Beyond Limits; they have shown what they can do over the last few years. They have a fantastic program but I think if you look at our results against them even TCC coming into this game, I think in the league they won and we won while in the TCC Cup final they won on penalties. The teams have a different style and anybody can win but I think our boys were so determined this time and as always in football you want a bit of luck as well.”
Aibogu provides technical support for the senior team while working with the football academy and affiliate club, Aarhus Fremad in Denmark.
