The goalkeeper of Henry Nwosu FC, Samuel Oriola is still basking in the euphoria of his team’s conquest of the maiden Ex-internationals Cup and revealed the secrets of his amazing brilliance in stopping penalty kicks.
A goalkeeper for the 36 Lion FC, Oriola’s dexterity in stopping penalties helped him guide his team to success over Friday Ekpo FC in Sunday’s final, following which he spilt the beans on the source of his rare talent.
Having earlier pulled off similar feats in the quarter-finals and semi-finals, Oriola was bound to become a hero in the competition’s ultimate match, and he did not disappoint.
He told Sports 247 afterwards that it was a combination of his talent, instructions from his team’s goalkeepers’ trainer and the grace of God that continues guiding him.
While also thanking Lagos State Football Association (LSFA) chairman, Hajji Gafar Olawale Liameed for introducing the keepers’ trainer to the team, Oriola disclosed further that he learnt many life-changing lessons from his participation in the first-of-its-kind competition.
Oriola declared: “I am so happy, I’m so glad. It was a very great challenge from the beginning of the competition to this stage. I give God all the glory.
“When we started the game, we were nervous, but my coach said we should calm down. I was under pressure, but I still believed that we could do it.
“I am happy that we scaled through even when the game went into penalties. I give God all the glory for this victory and for the experience that I gained.”
He went on to explain his big achievement from participating in the contest that was organised by LSFA, saying, “I’ve picked very good lessons from this competition.
“The most important thing I learnt is that you have to keep on moving. No matter the challenges in life, you just have to keep pushing and keep giving your best on the field of play.
“The opponents also gave their best to get to this stage, but I thank God that we won. I also thank God that I have been able to keep moving. No matter the challenges, no matter the situation, I will keep going.”
Oriola concluded by restating his faith in the role of God in his life, which he said keeps making it possible for him to get the right people to assist him in taking his talent to a higher level.
“I keep believing, and God is always helping me. That’s why I am so happy about our victory in the game today.
“I will also thank my goalkeepers’ trainer, Mr Tunde, for the tips he gave me. He’s a very great guy, and he worked on me after Mr Gafar brought him to the team.
“I am so happy for his efforts, as he worked on me and gave me courage. When it came to penalty kicks, he encouraged me.
“He told me to be calm, and just keep my eyes on the ball. I thank him and give God all the glory. I am so happy for today,” Oriola rounded off with relish.
