"My elder brother is my greatest inspiration" - Etiosa Ighodaro reveals on football career

Posted : 07 August 2023

Football has long been a sport that captures the hearts and imaginations of people all over the world.

Its ability to transcend borders and unite nations is exemplified by the story of Etiosa Godspower Ighodaro, a 22-year-old football prodigy from Benin City, Nigeria.

With a burning passion for the beautiful game, Etiosa's journey in football began at a young age, and today, he stands as one of Nigeria's most promising talents in the sport.

Born on June 22, 2001, in the vibrant city of Benin, Nigeria, Etiosa Ighodaro grew up surrounded by the love of his family and a deep-rooted passion for football.

Like many aspiring footballers, his early years were marked by countless hours spent honing his skills on dusty neighborhood pitches.

But what set Etiosa apart was his unwavering commitment and determination to succeed.

He had a vision, a dream to play football at the highest level, and he was ready to embark on a journey that would take him beyond the borders of his homeland.

As he honed his craft, Etiosa caught the attention of local scouts and coaches, who recognized his talent and potential.

He earned a place in the prestigious Abuja College football team, where he continued to impress with his pace, skill, and keen footballing intelligence.

During his time at Abuja College, Ighodaro's performances drew the attention of several Nigerian clubs, but it was Mamelodi Sundowns FC in South Africa that ultimately secured his signature in 2021.

Moving to Sundowns was a pivotal moment in Etiosa's career. It marked his first step towards realizing his dream of playing professional football on a grand stage.

While joining Sundowns was an achievement in itself, the young forward knew that to grow as a player, he needed to gain valuable game time and experience.

Thus, he embarked on a series of loan moves that would help shape his journey and build his reputation as a talented young striker.

The loan spells at Chippa United and U. Pretoria proved to be crucial turning points in Etiosa's career.

Playing in the competitive environment of the South African Premier Soccer League allowed him to test his skills against seasoned professionals and experience the rigors of top-flight football.

As he adapted to different playing styles and faced formidable opposition, Ighodaro matured as a player and showcased his versatility as both a centre-forward and a right-winger.

His impressive performances on loan earned him admiration from fans and accolades from football pundits.

His market value skyrocketed to €650,000, a testament to his potential and the trust placed in him by clubs.

It was during this time that Etiosa's name began to resonate not only in South African football circles but also in the consciousness of scouts and football enthusiasts back in Nigeria.

In the summer of 2023, the next chapter in Etiosa's journey unfolded as he joined SuperSport United on loan from Mamelodi Sundowns FC.

SuperSport United, a club known for its commitment to nurturing young talents, offered Etiosa the ideal platform to continue his development and showcase his skills.

The move brought him to the attention of a broader audience, and expectations soared as football enthusiasts eagerly anticipated his performances in the blue and white colors of SuperSport.

Etiosa's time at SuperSport United has been characterized by determination, hard work, and the unyielding desire to succeed.

As a key figure in the team's attacking line, he has consistently demonstrated his ability to find the back of the net, delivering crucial goals and assists that have contributed to SuperSport's successes on the field.

Beyond the boundaries of football, Etiosa Ighodaro's journey is a testament to the power of determination, perseverance, and passion.

As a rising star from Nigeria, he embodies the dreams of countless young boys and girls across Africa who dare to dream of making it big in the world of football.

His story serves as an inspiration to those who face obstacles and challenges in pursuing their dreams, showing that with dedication and talent, anything is possible.

Notably, Etiosa Ighodaro is the younger brother of Ighodaro Osaguona, another footballer who has made a name for himself in the sport.

This family connection adds to the intrigue surrounding the Ighodaro brothers' footballing journey and enhances the narrative of talent and dedication running in their bloodline.

During an exclusive interview with Africa Sport Network (ASN), the young and talented Nigerian footballer, Etiosa Godspower Ighodaro, opened up about the source of his greatest inspiration in his footballing career.

With a bright smile on his face and a glint of excitement in his eyes, he shared the story of the person who has played a pivotal role in shaping his journey as a footballer – his beloved brother, Ighodaro Osaguona.

"My greatest inspiration is my elder brother, Osaguona Ighodaro. He is also a footballer," he said.

Reflecting on his journey in football, Ighodaro fondly recalled the last football season as one of the most remarkable periods of his career.

It was a season that etched unforgettable memories in his heart, leaving an indelible mark on his path as a footballer.

The feeling of exhilaration and pride that washed over him each time he found the back of the net was unlike any other, as he experienced the joy of achieving a significant milestone in his footballing journey.

"Last season, I did well for myself by scoring 11 goals and 2 assists," he shared excitedly.

When posed with the question of his greatest challenge, the footballer responded with a candid and introspective perspective on his journey as a foreigner in the world of football.

For him, being a foreign player presents unique obstacles that demand resilience, determination, and an unwavering work ethic.

He acknowledged that while being a foreigner opens up exciting opportunities and new horizons, it also places him in a highly competitive environment where every player vies for a chance to shine.

As a foreign player, the footballer understands that he is entering a realm where he must prove himself consistently, as there is no room for complacency or laziness.

"I haven’t faced any challenges yet. However, I'm working very hard because I'm a foreigner, so there is no time for laziness."

During the interview, Ighodaro spoke passionately about his burning desire to play in the top leagues of football.

For him, reaching the pinnacle of the sport is not just a dream but a deeply ingrained ambition that fuels his every move on the field.

He envisions himself competing shoulder to shoulder with the world's best players, in the most prestigious and competitive leagues, where every match is a battle of skill, wit, and determination.

"My desire is to play at one of the top five leagues in the world."

The rise of Etiosa Godspower Ighodaro from the dusty streets of Benin City to the vibrant football pitches of South Africa's top-flight leagues is a tale of talent, hard work, and ambition.

As he continues to grow and evolve as a footballer, his journey stands as a symbol of hope and inspiration for aspiring athletes across the continent.

Etiosa's story is a reminder that football has the power to not only entertain but also transform lives and shape the destinies of young individuals with dreams in their hearts and a ball at their feet.

"My elder brother is my greatest inspiration" - Etiosa Ighodaro reveals on football career

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