“It has not been easy being the only black man on the team” - Footballer Samuel Opeh reveals

During an exclusive interview with Africa Sport Network (ASN), the football sensation, Samuel Opeh, revealed some deep truths about himself, such as his dedication to his Christian faith, his love for his girlfriend and good food. 

He also revealed the intricate areas of his football career, his inspiration and his coping mechanism as a black footballer in the diaspora. 

Samuel Opeh, a proud Nigerian national born in the vibrant city of Kaduna in Nigeria, embarked on a remarkable journey that has taken him from his humble beginnings to the international stage.  

Immersed in the rich cultural tapestry of his homeland during his formative years, Samuel's love for football flourished under the warm African sun.  

Today, at the age of 24, born on December 25, 1998, this towering talent stands at an impressive height of 184cm, dominating the field as a formidable force in the center-back position. 

With unwavering determination and a relentless pursuit of excellence, Samuel Opeh has carved out a promising career for himself, currently donning the jersey of Lokomotiv Tashkent.  

This prominent football club, situated in the heart of Uzbekistan, serves as the platform for Samuel's athletic prowess and boundless potential to shine.  

A testament to his skill and undeniable talent, he has become an integral part of their team, leaving an indelible mark on the pitch with his unrivaled defensive abilities. 

Samuel's recent transfer from FK Oqtepa to Lokomotiv Tashkent in 2021 marked a pivotal moment in his professional journey.  

This transition not only symbolized a new chapter in his career but also underscored the faith that the club had in his abilities.  

As he stepped onto the field for his new team, Samuel carried with him the dreams and aspirations of his supporters, eager to witness the magic he would weave in his new sporting home. 

Beyond the numbers and statistics, Samuel Opeh's journey is a testament to the human spirit and the power of perseverance.  

From the dusty streets of Kaduna to the bustling stadiums of international competitions, his unwavering dedication to his craft and unyielding spirit have propelled him forward.  

In each tackle, every aerial duel, and every sweat-drenched training session, Samuel channels his passion and love for the game, epitomizing the unbreakable bond between a player and the sport that ignites their soul. 

While revealing the secret to his jersey number, 44, Opeh told ASN:  

“4 is actually my favorite number, since my mentor (Sergio Ramos) uses that number. When I came to the team, another player was wearing the number 4 jersey, so I decided to take the 44.” 

Opeh further opened up on the series of events that sparked his interest in football and consequently, his career, which were both teary and inspirational. 

“I started playing football when I was 9/10. My elder brother was a football player, but he never made it to the professional level because he died at a young age. He was a great inspiration to me. 

“Before he died, he was playing in Pepsi academy. Then my father never supported him to play football. My dad wanted him to go to school. He accepted and when he got admission into the university, he died.” 

Opeh went ahead to discuss how he started his football career abroad, and how his late mother became his biggest support system; he expressed regrets that she is no longer alive to witness his great achievements.  

“I was just playing on the streets; from the streets to school, and then I joined a football academy. This academy happens to travel a lot, so it gave me exposure. When we travel, I get to meet new people, friends and new challenges. I was so excited that I even left school sometimes to travel with my team without my family knowing. 

“Only my mom supported me then. When I come back sometimes, my dad beats me, but my mum comes to defend me most times. She was like my agent then too. 

“There was one time I wanted to travel to Cotonou with my team. When I wanted to leave, she prayed for me, and after the prayers, she told me with a smile that she’s my agent in case anyone asks, and we just laughed,” Opeh said, with a knowing smile.  

“I hope she is proud of me wherever she is right now,” he added.  

As Samuel Opeh delves into his experiences within his current club and the broader diaspora, he paints a vivid picture of growth, challenges, and cultural immersion.  

In Lokomotiv Tashkent, he finds himself amidst a melting pot of talent, where players from diverse backgrounds converge to create a harmonious footballing symphony.  

The camaraderie within the team transcends cultural boundaries, as they learn from one another, embracing their differences and celebrating their shared passion for the sport.  

Through shared experiences, both on and off the field, Samuel forges lasting bonds with teammates who become an extended family, navigating the complexities of life as expatriates together. 

Beyond the club, Samuel's journey within the diaspora has been a tapestry of personal growth and adaptation.  

Living in a foreign land brings with it a multitude of challenges, from adjusting to new customs and languages to finding a sense of belonging in a foreign community.  

However, it is within these challenges that Samuel discovers his resilience and inner strength. He immerses himself in the local culture, immersing himself in the traditions, flavors, and rhythms of Uzbekistan.  

The diaspora becomes a canvas for Samuel's personal and professional development, expanding his horizons and broadening his understanding of the world. 

“My experience so far has been a different culture; the way of greeting people, food, new language and the way of dressing are all different and new to me.  

“It has not been easy being the only black man on the team. They love me so much; I can feel it really. Generally, I feel so proud. 

“Most times when anyone does or says anything to depict racism towards me, I just laugh over it because I know that will not change who I am in the sight of GOD.” 

In a heartfelt reflection, Opeh eloquently describes the delicate art of balancing his flourishing career with the ever-important aspects of his personal life. 

Acknowledging the demanding nature of his career, Opeh emphasizes the significance of establishing clear boundaries and prioritizing self-care.  

He highlights the necessity of carving out dedicated time for his loved ones, cherishing moments that transcend the realm of football and offer solace and rejuvenation.  

Whether it be spending quality time with family, engaging in leisure activities, or simply pursuing personal hobbies, Opeh recognizes the vital role these elements play in fostering a healthy work-life balance. 

He unveils his meticulous approach, meticulously planning and allocating specific blocks of time for training, matches, and other professional commitments, while equally allocating time for personal growth, relaxation, and rejuvenation.  

By striking this delicate equilibrium, Opeh ensures that his personal life remains enriched and fulfilling, allowing him to excel in his career without sacrificing the core values and relationships that ground him. 

In his pursuit of balance, Opeh draws strength from his support system, acknowledging the unwavering love and understanding of his family and close friends.  

Their presence acts as a pillar of strength, offering guidance, encouragement, and a shoulder to lean on during both triumphs and challenges. 

“I have come to realize that the most important thing about being a football player is my ability to discipline myself. I do away with some things that I don’t need and prioritize the things I need.  

“My relationship is very important to me. For instance, my girl has not been with me since the beginning of the season. Most times she comes when we are almost finishing the season or in the middle of the season. When we have breaks, like currently, I make sure I spend quality time with her.  

“I also make time for my other interests. I love listening to music, dancing, playing video games and sleeping. I don’t joke with that either,” he said.  

When queried about his affinity for other sports beyond football, Samuel Opeh enthusiastically expressed his love for basketball, divulging that he indulges in the game on occasion, finding solace and enjoyment in the exhilarating rhythm of dribbling, shooting, and competing on the hardwood court, serving as a proof of his versatility as an athlete with a passion that extends beyond his primary discipline. 

He also disclosed an array of remarkable football talents he has collaborated with. 

“I hold these people in high esteem; Osaze Peter Odemwimgie, who’s my agent presently; Ibrahim Yattara, from Guinea, who I met at Istanbul, Turkey; and a former coach and legend in this country, Server Djeparov.” 

Samuel Opeh noted that his long-term goal as a player will be to play in the World Cup and help his family members become successful. 

“For me to be able to play in the World Cup and win as many trophies as I can. And to be able to help my family, and make sure all of them become successful.” 

When posed with a spontaneous question by ASN, asking what three items he would deem essential if stranded on an island, Samuel Opeh cheekily responded, bursting into laughter: “My bible, my girlfriend and food.” 

During the final segment of the interview, Opeh was posed a crucial question regarding his vision for utilizing his platform to assist aspiring footballers in their journey to success. 

“By providing football kits for them as much as I can,” Opeh said. 

In a heartfelt message to aspiring footballers, Opeh imparted his wisdom, urging them to embrace discipline, patience, and unwavering faith in God throughout their journey.  

Recognizing the inherent challenges and uncertainties of the path they are embarking upon, he emphasized the fundamental role these qualities play in shaping their character and fostering long-term success. 

With conviction, Opeh stressed the significance of discipline as a cornerstone of achievement, highlighting the importance of adhering to a structured routine, dedicating oneself to consistent training, and maintaining a strong work ethic.  

He emphasized that discipline is the key that unlocks potential, enabling individuals to overcome obstacles, stay focused, and continuously strive for improvement. 

“My advice will be to be patient and disciplined, dedicated and most of all, to be prayerful, because only God can make our heart desires come through.” 

Through a symphony of talent, resilience, and unwavering commitment, Samuel Opeh's football career exemplifies the triumph of dreams, inspiring aspiring athletes to pursue their passions relentlessly and embrace the limitless possibilities that await them on the pitch.