Legit Footers Football Academy youngster Daniel Aphoun has described his side’s triumph in the U10 category of the Late Major R.A. Owolabi Memorial Cup as a moment of immense joy after an unexpected journey from “best loser” to champions.
Legit Footers Football Academy defeated Okeola Concord Football Club 1-0 in the final, with Aphoun scoring the decisive goal that secured the maiden title for his team.
Speaking in an exclusive SPORTS247 interview, the young Togolese-born footballer revealed that he initially believed his team had been eliminated from the competition after the group stage.
“My initial feeling was that we had been eliminated from the competition before hearing about our qualification as the best loser. We moved from being the best loser to becoming champions.
I’m so happy that my team won the trophy and the tournament. I’m so glad to have scored the goal that secured this maiden title for my team,” he said.
Asked what went through his mind when the goalkeeper threw the ball to him moments before he scored the title-winning goal, Aphoun kept his answer simple.
“What came to my mind was to shoot, which I did, and the result was the title-winning goal,” he explained.
Despite his young age, Aphoun already has ambitious dreams for his football career. He wants to reach the very top of the game, both nationally and internationally.
“My goal is to become the best footballer in Nigeria, Africa and the world. Also, I want to become a legend and a footballer capable of scoring goals,” he declared.
His biggest football inspiration is Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, whom he admires for his overall game.
“I love his gameplay—the way he shoots, marks and passes the ball,” Aphoun said.
The youngster also revealed that he supports Chelsea and particularly enjoys watching Cole Palmer, citing the club’s style of play and team togetherness as reasons for his support.
Aphoun acknowledged the important role his parents play in his football journey, saying they provide him with the necessary equipment and fully support his ambitions.
“I’m praying for them that God will help them and provide for them so they can continue to provide for me,” he said.
Asked whether he would represent Togo if called up by the national team, Aphoun was unequivocal: “Togo. I love the country so much.”
He also expressed confidence that he could one day surpass the achievements of former Togolese star Emmanuel Adebayor.
Returning home as a champion, Aphoun said he was happy and eager to share his experience with his friends. More importantly, the tournament has taught him a valuable life lesson.
“It taught me resilience and determination,” he concluded.
