The youngsters leave the local scene to pursue their dreams of becoming professional footballers in Europe
Talented Nigerian teenagers Shakirat Olamide Oyinlola and Miracle Usani have signed with the La Liga Academy in Madrid, Spain, Soccernet.ng reports.
Oyinlola and Usani were members of the Nigeria U17 FIFA Women’s World Cup squads last year.
A defender by trade, Oyinlola leaves Abuja-based Nigerian Women’s Football League side Naija Ratels to pursue her football dreams in Spain.
The 17-year-old could not contain her excitement, promptly taking to social media to share her news.
She expressed her enthusiasm, saying, “Delighted to start a new journey with La Liga Academy. All thanks to God. The process continues,” on her social media page.
Oyinlola was Nigeria’s first-choice centre-back, while Usani was a dependable right-back at the cadet World Cup last year, where the Flamingoes won the bronze medal – the country’s best-ever finish.
Despite being a full-back, Usani was Nigeria’s top goalscorer at the tournament, contributing two goals and an assist.
The 17-year-old scored in the opening game, a 2-1 defeat to Germany, and also in the second game, 4-0 wallop of New Zealand.
Nigeria lost on penalties in the semifinal to Colombia but defeated Germany also on penalties in the third-place match.
Both Usabi and Oyinlola will aim to take advantage of the facilities and opportunities at the La Liga Academy to take their career to the next level.
The La Liga Academy is a global initiative dedicated to nurturing grassroots soccer worldwide.
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