In 2009 in Pretoria South Africa, a group of young Nigerian under-16 lads were tormenting their contemporaries at the maiden edition of the Coca-Cola-sponsored Copa Cup competition for grassroots teams from different African nations. The Nigerian team, which ended up winning the competition, had in their ranks a fleet-footed attacker who contributed in no small measure in their triumph at the rainbow nation. Freeborn Omofomwan banged in six goals to end up as top scorer for the Nigerian team and second highest goals scorer of the competition.

Having been signed last season by Nigerian Premier League giants, Warri Wolves, Omofomwan is looking forward to having more international success. “I hope to be called up to represent my country by the under-21 coaches. I promise I will do my best to bring success to Nigeria just like I did when I was involved in the Nigerian team that won the Copa Cup in South Africa in 2009,” Omofoman recently told News Express in Warri.

The Benin City-born striker recorded a goal for Warri Wolves in last season’s Super Four tournament for the top teams in the local league and scored a super goal against Dynamite force in last year’s Federation Cup competition. This season Omofoman has made several appearances for Wolves and is appreciative of the protection he’s getting from the Paul Igbogun-led technical crew.

“The coach knows I’m a young lad and he’s teaching me the humility of not playing all the time. I’m impressed by his management style,” Omofoman said.

Omofoman is a defender’s nightmare. His speed, tricky step-overs and ability to shoot with both legs are qualities that have made him stand out. He’s also comfortable operating from anywhere upfront (as a top striker, support striker and from the flanks), and his eye for goals is outstanding.

The 19-year-old attacker is a product of the famous BJ Foundation grassroots team (the youth team that produced Super Eagles duo of Elderson Echiejile and Victor Moses, as well as Porto midfielder Mikel Agu, amongst other ex-youth internationals). With a solid youth football education and now the experience of playing in a Premier League clubside that participates in continental competitions, he needs to be well monitored by the national under-21 team selectors because his exploits deserve it.

The Flying Eagles, coached by Manu Garba, are currently preparing for the African Youth Championship qualifiers and recently drew 1-1 and 2-2 with Morocco in double friendly matches played in the North African country.

•Photo shows Freeborn Omofoman.

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