As the Super Eagles get set to face African champions Cameroon in a crucial double header in the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, we take a look at one of the players who will play an important role for the team and nation, Oghenekaro Peter Etebo.
So, here are things you probably didn’t know about Etebo
Early Life
Etebo was born in Lagos in November 9, 1995 but hails from the South South state of Edo.
Education
He got his football training at the Lord Honour FC academy in Warri, Delta State, and like the saying goes, ‘Warri no dey carry last‘- has certainly been true of the 21-year-old.
He loves breaking records
Etebo isn’t just in love with scoring goals, but breaks records while at it.
- His 17 goals in the 2013 NPFL season remain the highest tally in a debut season by any player.
- He also is the only Nigerian to score four goals in a match at the Olympics.
- Etebo is Nigeria’s highest scorer at u23 level ever, with 12goals from 12appearances.
- He also scored a hattrick in his professional debut back in 2013, for Warri Wolves, before going on to score the fastest hattrick in the league, also in 2013.
Versatility
As a coach, having someone like Etebo is a gift, as he can play anywhere- right back, attacking mifield, as winger, as a CM(box-to-box) and has also been used by his club in Portugal as a false 9.
Compared to Paul Pogba
Given is physicality, creativity and an eye for a pass and goal, Etebo has been compared to France midfielder, Paul Pogba, who currently plays for English PL side, Manchester United.
He’s not the tallest of players
When it comes to his height, that’s where the comparison with Pogba ends, as the Nigerian stands at just 5ft 7″.
Italy
Etebo had an unsuccessful trial at Serie A side, Udinese two years ago.
