By Peter Sember
TikiTaka FC International from Nigeria will kick off their campaign at the prestigious Cup No. 1 tournament in Denmark against the German U17 side, Team Bremerhaven, at Field 10 Fodboldvej, Frederikshavn. TikiTaka FC, the 2019 champions and one of the tournament favorites, will face the challenge of the Gegenpressing German side. The Nigerian team employs the TikiTaka style, characterized by massive possession and high pressing.
Later in the afternoon, at 15:30, TikiTaka FC International will play against the Norwegian side Bjerkreim, who also utilize a similar playing style to the Nigerian team.
Since 1984, Cup No. 1 has been organizing youth tournaments for boys and girls, with 9200 teams from over 100 nations participating. The tournament has produced many future stars, including several who have gone on to play in top European leagues, like TikiTaka’s Abraham Ogbu of Ostersund FK, Sweden and Muritala of KuPS FC of Finland. The 2024 edition marks the 39th installment, raising the question: Will the Nigerian contingent be twice lucky at Cup No. 1?
Speaking to journalists during yesterday’s training, Coach Monday Cornelius and the team’s Technical Advisor, Tommy Johansson, expressed the team’s readiness to exceed expectations at the tournament. “The boys are highly motivated and prepared for this tournament. Our preparation phase was seamless and effective, pitching the boys against top teams in Nigeria and keeping them physically fit to lift the Cup No. 1 once again, as we did in 2019,” stated Coach Monday. Johansson added, “We’ve seen tremendous growth in the players’ skills and teamwork. We’re confident they will perform exceptionally well.”
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The team has undergone rigorous training, including friendly matches against high-caliber Nigerian and Liberian teams to ensure peak performance. Standout players like striker Innocent Okoro and midfielder Moses B. Joel, as well as left wing back, Suleiman Abubakar are expected to be key players in their quest for victory.
TikiTaka FC International is not only focused on winning but also on providing their players with invaluable international experience. “It’s about development and exposure. Playing against different styles and talents helps our boys grow,” said Johansson.
As the tournament unfolds, all eyes will be on TikiTaka FC International and their quest to reclaim the title. The competition is fierce, with strong teams from across the globe vying for the top spot. However, with their proven track record and thorough preparation, TikiTaka FC International is poised to make a significant impact once again.
