U-17 World Cup Winner Edidiong Essien Shares How Amunike’s Discipline Shaped the Golden Eaglets’ March to Glory In 2015

When Nigeria lifted the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Chile, a lot of the highlight was on Victor Osimhen’s record-breaking objectives and the group’s thrilling victories. However for Edidiong Essien, considered one of the Golden Eaglets’ scorers of their emphatic 6-0 win over Australia, the reminiscence goes past the purpose. It’s about the man who formed the group’s mindset: Coach Emmanuel Amunike.

Talking on The Unseen Stage Podcast with Nsikakabasi Akpan, Essien recalled the feelings tied to his headed purpose towards Australia. “I used to be ready for the ball, and when it got here, I gave a robust header and scored. It was a particular second,” he stated. “However I couldn’t take off my shirt to rejoice, as a result of we had been taking part in below a really disciplined coach.

That coach was Emmanuel Amunike, a former Nigerian worldwide and now head coach of Heartland FC in Imo State. His affect on that 2015 squad prolonged far past techniques. In accordance to Essien, Amuneke instilled a tradition of humility, focus, and restraint, even in moments of triumph.

“After each win, Coach Emmanuel Amunike will at all times inform us that the pleasure is an excessive amount of, that we must always remian calm and plan for the subsequent recreation,” Essien shared. “Even after we gained the ultimate, he advised us that the pleasure was an excessive amount of. That’s the form of man he’s, very disciplined.”

Amuneke’s regular management proved very important all through the event. Nigeria confronted powerful opposition, together with African champions Mali in the ultimate. Regardless of a shaky first half that included a missed penalty, the group remained composed and ultimately secured a 2-0 win with objectives from Osimhen and Funsho Bamgboye.

Beneath Amuneke’s watch, the Golden Eaglets not solely grew to become world champions but in addition etched their names in historical past by defending their title. Solely Brazil had achieved that feat earlier than. Osimhen completed as the event’s prime scorer with ten objectives, setting a document by scoring in each match.

However for gamers like Edidiong Essien, it wasn’t nearly the title. It was about studying from a coach who demanded excellence, insisted on self-discipline, and reminded them that greatness is achieved not simply by profitable, however by the way you carry your self while you do.