Yenagoa—Okardi Inikurogha has proven to be a talented footballer with a bright future.
The 17-year-old player hails from Ewoama community but grew up in Twon Brass, headquarters of Brass Local Government Area, Bayelsa State.
His love for the round leather game and his versatility on the field enable him to play in different positions, including the center-forward position, left-wing and right-wing.
He was signed as a player for Bayelsa United a year ago, after leaving George Turnah FC of Kolo.
He is part of the Bayelsa United team that won the Aiteo Cup final in Benin City against Nasarawa United on Sunday.
Okardi, who scored the first goal to put Bayelsa United ahead in the game, had previously scored two goals in the competition; just like Emo James, another Bayelsa United forward, who also has three goals to his name.
In an exclusive interview with Mangrovepen.ng, on Monday, Okardi expressed delight over his recent achievement with the team.
Popularly called Tete, Okardi revealed that it took determination and teamwork among the players and technical crew to win the cup.
“Honestly, it’s an experience of a lifetime. Until this moment I find it hard to believe we are champions because we were considered the underdogs going into the finals, but in the end, we won.
“We achieved this feat based on determination and teamwork.
“We were motivated by our dreams of playing in top-flight European clubs, and we felt that the competition was a good platform to showcase our skills and talents.
“We disciplined ourselves, trained hard, and in the end, we got our reward,” he said.
According to him, he plans to further his education soon, but for now, he is focused on building his professional career as a footballer.
“I am a Secondary School Certificate holder, but I have plans to further my education in the near future.”
Okardi, who thanked his supporters and well-wishers, also stressed that his strength and motivation come from the support he is receiving from them.
