Buruj Sports Academy prodigy, Raheem Moyinoluwa Salaudeen, has described his participation in the maiden African School Games as a significant and unforgettable chapter in his young football journey.
Salaudeen, a member of Nigeria’s U15 boys’ football team, the Future Eagles, expressed his delight at representing the nation despite the team’s early exit from the competition.
“It’s a huge experience having the chance to represent the country in this competition,” Salaudeen said.
“The experience will go a long way in shaping my career progression as I look to future endeavours.”
Nigeria was eliminated on Sunday evening following a dramatic 5-4 penalty shootout defeat to Sudan in Annaba.
The thrilling encounter had ended 3-3 in regulation time, with the Future Eagles squandering a 3-1 lead before the Sudanese staged a spirited comeback to force penalties.
“It’s unfortunate that we had to exit through the lottery of a penalty shootout after our first game. I wished we progressed further and probably won a medal,” the youngster lamented.
“We had our chances to wrap up the game, but we let it slip away. Playing against bigger and more physical opponents was not easy, but we’ll learn from this experience.”
The African School Games is a continental multi-sport event designed to promote grassroots sports development and unity among young athletes across Africa.
Featuring school-aged participants in various disciplines, the Games serve as a platform to nurture future sports stars while fostering cultural exchange and sportsmanship.
Buruj Sports Academy, where Salaudeen is honing his skills, emphasizes a balanced approach to education and football through its Study and Play Initiative.
The academy is committed to producing academically sound and athletically talented students, preparing them for professional football careers while securing their future beyond the sport.
Admissions into various classes for the 2025/2026 academic session are currently ongoing at Buruj Sports Academy.