In a recent interview with EBENEZER BAJELA, 16-year-old Beyond Limits goalkeeper Daniel Aiyenugba, who is the son of former Super Eagles keeper Dele Aiyenugba, discussed his dream of playing for the national team, the experience of facing his father in a pre-season tournament, and more.
Q: How did you feel when you recently faced off against your dad in a pre-season tournament and came out victorious?
A: I feel incredibly happy and fulfilled because it’s not something that happens often, and I don’t think it has ever occurred in Nigerian football before. The fact that we made history with that match brings me great joy.
Q: Would you like to see more of such matchups in the future?
Certainly, I cherished that day and would love to see it happen again. I’m confident my dad would also relish the opportunity because we both thoroughly enjoyed the experience, and we’ve even discussed it.
Q: Before the match, did you both talk about the experience of facing each other?
A: Yes, we did have a conversation about it, and we shared some laughter over the situation. He provided valuable advice to help me stay focused and composed for the match, as it felt unusual to compete against my dad. He told me to savor the game and disregard any rumors circulating about us. I recall he also made a playful bet, promising to give me N10,000 if my team won, but if we lost, I’d owe him the same amount.
Q: Has he redeemed his pledge to you?
A: Honestly, we haven’t had a chance to meet since the match because I had to return to school after playing for Remo Academy. But I’m confident he’ll fulfill his promise when we do meet because he’s always been true to his word.
Q: How close are you to your dad?
A: We have a very close relationship, and I would say he’s always been there for me even when he was abroad. He made an effort to keep in touch and provided guidance. He taught me a lot, so I can confidently say we have a strong bond.
Q: Did your dad influence your decision to become a goalkeeper?
A: I’d say he influenced my choice to become a goalkeeper to some extent. Whenever he was on break from his club and came home, we would watch videos of him together, and I admired him for it. When he left for Israel, I had a coach who trained me, and he would send videos of my performance to my dad, who was very supportive and encouraged me to continue. So, it was partly my decision, but he played a role in it.
Q: At what age did you decide to become a goalkeeper?
A: I believe I was around eight or nine years old when I made up my mind to follow in my dad’s footsteps.
Q: Did you ever wear his gloves to train?
A: Yes, I did wear his gloves sometimes when playing at home. However, my coach was the one who got me my first pair of gloves, and later, my dad started sending me gloves from Europe.
Q: Who is your role model?
A: My dad has always been my role model, and I’m grateful to my coach for the valuable lessons as well. In Europe, my favorite goalkeeper is Marc-Andre Ter Stegen from Barcelona and Germany. He’s an exceptional goalkeeper, and I watch his videos extensively to learn from him.
Q: How did you react to your dad’s losses when he played in Israel?
A: When my dad was in Israel, I was quite young, and I didn’t watch his games live. So, I didn’t experience the emotions of his losses at that time. I consider myself fortunate not to have known how it felt back then. However, now that I’m a bit older, I watch many of his games on YouTube and understand the disappointment of losing. You have to move on and prepare for the next match.
Q: There is a video online of your younger brother training to be a goalkeeper. Is it a family tradition?
A: I believe it’s becoming somewhat of a family tradition, but it ultimately comes down to hard work and determination. Without those qualities, our talent wouldn’t shine through.
Q: Do you see yourself playing for Nigeria like your dad?
A: It’s a dream for me to represent Nigeria because that’s every footballer’s dream, and I’m certain it would make my father incredibly proud.
Q: Do you believe you can surpass your father’s achievements?
A: Absolutely, I have confidence that I can surpass my father, and the truth is, he wants me to excel beyond his accomplishments. He has been incredibly supportive and shares his wisdom with me.
Q: How has your journey been so far?
A: My journey is progressing well because I’m in a place where I have the opportunity to develop and enhance my skills. My dream is to play in Europe, and perhaps even for Barcelona someday.
Q: Among your peers, you’re a popular figure. How do you handle the pressure and attention?
A: I simply live my life as a regular teenager and stay focused. I don’t let external pressures affect me or make me feel superior to others. I’m currently in SS2, which means I have a lot to learn and a long way to go. So, I just embraced my life as a teenager.
Q: Do you plan to pursue higher education beyond secondary school?
A: I plan to complete my secondary education and proceed to university because education is very important to me.
Q: During the times your dad was abroad, how did you feel as a young boy?
A: I truly missed him during those times, and there were moments of sadness. However, my family always reminded me that his work took him away, and now I understand better. It was challenging when he was not around, and I wouldn’t want that for my children in the future. When I have a family of my own, we’ll be together wherever I go.
