France-based Yekini Adeshina Delighted with Foreign-based players win in Harmony Stars Showcase match, urges young footballers to be focused

France-based Yekini Adeshina Delighted with Foreign-based players win in Harmony Stars Showcase match, urges young footballers to be focused


French-based Nigerian winger Yekini Adeshina has expressed his delight at returning home to Kwara State and reuniting with fellow professional footballers during the maiden edition of the Harmony Stars Showcase novelty match held at the Rashidi Yekini Main Bowl of the George Innih Stadium Complex, Ilorin.

Adeshina was among the foreign-based stars who emerged victorious as the foreign-based team defeated their home-based counterparts 4-3 on penalties after a thrilling 1-1 draw in regulation time.

The event, which attracted a large crowd of football fans, stakeholders, and family members, brought together Kwara-born footballers plying their trade both within and outside Nigeria in what many described as a historic gathering of football talents from the state.

Speaking after the match, Adeshina said he was excited to be back home and participate in an initiative designed to unite footballers of Kwara origin.

"It feels great to be back home and see so many talented players from Kwara together. The atmosphere was amazing, and it was wonderful connecting with fans, friends, and fellow professionals. Programmes like this help strengthen the bond among players and inspire the next generation," he said.

The Bergerac Perigord winger also used the opportunity to advise aspiring footballers to remain disciplined and committed to their dreams despite the challenges they may encounter.

"My advice to young players is to stay focused, work hard, and believe in themselves. Football is not easy, but with dedication, patience, and the right attitude, opportunities will come. They should continue learning and never stop striving to improve," Adeshina added.

The foreign-based team fought back from a goal down after Abia Warriors midfielder Yakubu Hammed had given the home-based side the lead in the first half. Isaac James of Kuwait's Burgan SC equalised after the break before the foreign-based stars held their nerve to claim a 4-3 victory in the penalty shootout.

The maiden Harmony Stars Showcase has been widely hailed as a successful initiative aimed at fostering unity, networking, and collaboration among Kwara-born footballers across different leagues and countries, with participants expressing optimism that the event will become a permanent fixture on the state's football calendar.

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