Martins Tips Italian Consulate Tourney Talents for Serie A

Former Super Eagles striker Obafemi Martins sees significant potential in the young footballers who participated in the inaugural Italian Consulate General U-20 Cup in Lagos, suggesting that the most outstanding players could forge careers in Italy's Serie A.

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I am very impressed by their display. They have really shown me they have the skills to compete, and I think when they go to Italy, they can fight for their chances in Serie A.

Martins, who himself had a notable career in Serie A with Inter Milan before playing for clubs worldwide, served as an ambassador for the tournament. He expressed his strong impression of the players' skills, believing they possess the talent to compete at a high level and "fight for their chances in Serie A."

The six-day competition, held from June 2-7, was organized by the Italian Consulate General in Lagos to identify youth talent and promote cultural exchange. Eight teams competed, including notable Nigerian clubs. Tournament organizer Emmanuel Omijeh noted that the event exceeded expectations, making the selection process for a trip to Italy challenging due to the sheer number of talented players scouted.

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It’s confusing because we have too many players. I think 40 stars have been scouted, but we have to prune them down to 20, and when they get to Italy, it’s all theirs to win.

Italian Consul General Ugo Bani, who attended the matches, described the tournament as "fantastic" and a "great opportunity" for the young athletes. Fellow former Super Eagles midfielder Christian Obodo, also a tournament ambassador, echoed the sentiment, stating that the final's quality impressed attendees and that he had already shared his assessments with European clubs.

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It was fantastic till the end, and I hope this chance will be a great opportunity.

Tournament technical director Ken Enofe added that the players surpassed his expectations, demonstrating impressive skill and a high standard of play, even if they are not yet at their peak. The event aimed to provide a platform for these aspiring footballers to showcase their abilities and potentially secure future opportunities in European football.

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I think we got the best at the end. It was a fantastic final, we all saw both sides and especially the team that won, and it was worth the trip. I have called those who sent me here, and I hope my judgment does justice for those who I like and they get a chance.