As a NIGERIAN football writer, the question that everybody always wants to ask you never changes: who is the next big star of the Female Football game?
Still in Nigeria and young, Desire Oparanozie is already a veteran in the eyes of many. She is now old news.
People are already wanting to look beyond the youngster and, if you like.
There are, of course, plenty of candidates. Some will doubtless make it to the top of the game.
So, let's take a look at six teenage players tipped for the top in future years.
There are too many to mention!
6. Amirat Adebisi
A safe choice for the list, Adebisi has been tipped for the top for some time now and was the star of Robo Queens U13.
A diminutive attacking midfielder, Adebisi operates at the point of the midfield, looking to open up defences for her team's attacking players.
Also an excellent free-kick taker, the player has a taste for goals and is often found making late runs into the area to finish off attacking moves that she may very well have instigated.
The talent is there, but the step up to star at first-team level is perhaps the greatest challenge a No. 10 will face in their career.
5. Monday Gift
Having played as a wide forward at Under-10 and Under-12 level, it was recently that she began to be used as a central striker. It was in this position that her game began to evolve from one of just electric pace, to now being regarded as a fine all-around attacking player.
Gift's progress is being carefully monitored by many in high places—she will soon have the chance to prove herself at Under-17 and Under-20 level.
4. Sarata Bello
Bello is just one of a rising double-act making waves at Methodist High School. She is leading the way for the team's much-hyped next generation.
Blessed with great speed, Bello is blessed with grit and determination.
The youngster has excellent close control and has shown herself to be a fine finisher when presented with chances.
3. Barakat Olaiya
Attacking midfielder Olaiya is just one of a handful of promising talents currently emerging at Bayelsa Queens.
A rapid dribbler with the ball, the No. 10 has proven herself to possess the technical attributes needed to both beat defenders and pick a key pass to her teammates. She has also built a reputation as a consistent goalscorer at youth levels.
2. Rofiat Sule
Often praised for her down-to-earth attitude, Sule is a surprisingly mature player for her age. She is quick and well-built, but relies primarily on her technical ability and footballing intelligence to shine.
Rofiat Sule is a natural goal poacher.
1. Rasheedat Ajibade
Renowned for her intelligent positioning, ability to beat opponents and, of course, her finishing, she is already being quietly compared in style to Desire Oparanozie and the legendary Perpetual Nkwocha.
Such is the talent of Ajibade that she scored a screamer for FC Robo Queens against Confluence Queens on 17th May 2013.
No comments:
Post a Comment