“Athlético FC d’Abidjan’s versatile midfielder, Favour Kalu, aged 18, opens up about her career challenges both on and off the field, her experiences playing abroad, and her football aspirations in this engaging interview with ‘TANA AIYEJINA.
You recently contributed to Ivorian champions Athletico securing a commendable third-place finish in the WAFU qualifiers for the CAF Champions League. Can you describe your feelings about this achievement?
First and foremost, I want to acknowledge the greatness of God. I’m absolutely thrilled to finally be a CAF player because it’s a dream I’ve nurtured for a long time. There was a point in my journey when it seemed like this dream would never materialize. I was released from Bayelsa Queens just a month before the preparations for the CAF Champions League began in June last year. At that moment, it felt like my aspirations of becoming a CAF medalist had been shattered. However, as we know, God works in mysterious ways, and He has made this dream a reality once more. All glory to God Almighty for this incredible opportunity, which marks the beginning of even greater accomplishments in my career.
How has the adjustment to life in Ivory Coast been, particularly concerning language, cuisine, and the overall environment?”
Parents usually oppose their daughters playing football. Did your parents support your choice?
(Laughs) It’s a bit of a long story, but I’ll keep it brief. Initially, it wasn’t easy at all, but as time went on, they came around because it was clear that I was unwavering in my determination to continue playing football, no matter what. So, eventually, they gave up their resistance and decided to support me in any way they could.
How did your love for football develop?
I can’t pinpoint an exact moment, but football has always been something I loved, even from my early childhood. I believe God blessed me with the talent to play football, and it’s something I’ve been passionate about since before I was born.
Was it a smooth journey when you started playing?
It was far from easy, and I encountered numerous challenges along the way. Life in the camp was particularly tough because there were often shortages of food, water for bathing, proper clothing, and football equipment. Sometimes, individuals would make inappropriate advances, seeking personal favors before offering assistance, but I never allowed such situations to occur. Additionally, both coaches and teammates occasionally attempted to take advantage of me because they believed I was too attractive to be a footballer. However, I thank God for where I am today.
So, you’re saying that even the coaches tried to take advantage of you?
Yes, that’s correct. Both male and female coaches did so in the past and, regrettably, even now. However, I won’t name anyone. It wasn’t easy, but God guided me through those difficult times, and He continues to do so.
What have been your best and most challenging moments as a footballer?
I can’t say that I’ve had truly terrible moments, although I’ve encountered various difficulties during my journey. However, I would describe being dropped from Bayelsa Queens just a few weeks before the CAF Champions League qualifiers as one of my most challenging experiences. I’ve faced some tough moments in life, but I had never been dropped from a team before that incident. Surprisingly, I wasn’t as bitter as one might expect because, at that point, I felt that I was getting closer to my ultimate destination, as I believed I was created for greatness. As for my best moment as a footballer, it would be participating in and winning a third-place medal in the Women’s CAF Champions League qualifiers, which was a first in my career.
There’s a perception that many women footballers are involved in same-sex relationships. What are your thoughts on this?
Yes, I agree with that perception. I’m not passing judgment, but I’ll state the facts as I see them. Some individuals have tendencies that lead them to engage in such behavior, and they often attribute it to the influence of negative friends or their life circumstances. Many people who engage in same-sex relationships tend to blame it on the devil, bad company, or their life circumstances. However, the truth is that some of the choices we make are influenced by our inclinations, and sometimes these inclinations already exist within us. Same-sex relationships have a demonic aspect; once you start, it becomes exceedingly difficult to break free from them. Some girls enter into such relationships out of fear of becoming pregnant while pursuing a football career, while others do it to support themselves financially. Some simply find it enjoyable because they prefer relationships with women over men.
How does society perceive women footballers?
I believe we are currently in an era where women footballers are gradually gaining recognition, and many people worldwide are starting to acknowledge their talents. However, some still view women footballers as underachievers and assume they lack education or other valuable qualities.
Do you think women footballers receive the same level of care and attention as their male counterparts?
(Laughs) I apologize for laughing, but no, we don’t receive the same level of care and attention as the male players, especially in Nigeria. In my country, female footballers are undervalued compared to their male counterparts, and this is a significant issue.
What do you see as the main challenges faced by women footballers in comparison to men?
Women footballers encounter challenges such as difficulty obtaining menstrual hygiene products, playing while hungry, and dealing with menstrual pain, which can be excruciating. Some female players struggle to perform while experiencing menstrual discomfort, while others can manage to play through it, even though it is quite painful. Additionally, both male and female coaches have been known to threaten players, demanding personal favors in exchange for playing time. Furthermore, male individuals sometimes exploit female footballers who seek financial assistance, particularly for essentials like uniforms, food, and accommodations.
How soon do you hope to play football in Europe?
With God’s grace, I hope to play in Europe very soon. I have faith and hope that before next year, I will receive a more substantial and attractive offer. However, I will continue to work diligently, acknowledging that it won’t be easy. But with God’s help, I believe it will happen.
The Falcons performed exceptionally well in the last Women’s World Cup. Do you believe you can break into the squad shortly?