From TCC Young Player of the Year to U20 Libertadores Hero

Shola Ogundana’s journey in football continues to inspire. From claiming the 2020/21 TCC Young Player of the Year award in Nigeria to being crowned Hero of the Tournament at the 2025 Copa Libertadores U20, the young forward has shown exceptional talent and determination.

Ogundana’s brilliance lit up the prestigious South American youth tournament, where his goals, assists, and leadership guided his team to ultimate victory. His performances on the pitch earned him the tournament’s highest individual honour, solidifying his place among the most promising young footballers in the world.

His rise began in the TCC League back home, where he first gained attention with outstanding performances. That success propelled him to opportunities abroad, where he continued to grow, sharpening his skills and gaining international acclaim.

Reflecting on his success after the tournament final, Ogundana said: “This means everything to me. Winning this award is a dream come true, but I couldn’t have done it without my teammates and coaches. I dedicate this to everyone who has supported me from the beginning.”

With European scouts now closely monitoring his progress, the future looks incredibly bright. Ogundana’s ability to thrive in high pressure situations, combined with his technical flair, makes him an exciting prospect for Europe’s top leagues. From humble beginnings in Nigeria to becoming a South American champion, his football story is only just unfolding.

Editorial

We are witnessing something special with Shola Ogundana. His journey from Nigeria’s grassroots football to becoming a standout player in South America is the sort of story that captures the imagination. In a world where talent often needs the right stage, Ogundana has shown that hard work and persistence can take you across continents and into the spotlight.

His performance in the Copa Libertadores U20 tournament proves that Nigerian footballers can succeed anywhere. Scoring key goals, providing assists, and leading on the field against South America’s finest youth teams is no small feat. He possesses the mental strength and technical ability to go even further.

We also believe this success is a testament to the quality of coaching and player development happening in Nigeria’s domestic leagues, particularly the TCC League. Players like Ogundana are the products of dedication from both clubs and local coaches, and his rise should encourage further investment in youth development programmes.

Now, with Europe’s elite clubs circling, we hope Ogundana makes a move that prioritises his growth and regular playing time. Too often, young African talents are lured to big clubs where opportunities are limited. For Ogundana, choosing the right club one that values nurturing young talent will be crucial.

The future is bright for this young star, and we look forward to seeing him fly the Nigerian flag even higher. His story is a reminder that dreams can come true with talent, hard work, and the right opportunities.

Did You Know?

1. The Copa Libertadores U20 was first introduced in 2011 and is the premier youth competition in South America.
2. Nigerian players have increasingly made their mark in South American leagues, a trend that highlights football’s global reach.
3. The TCC League The Creative Championship in Nigeria is known for showcasing some of the country’s top youth talent.
4. Previous Copa Libertadores U20 standout players have gone on to play in European leagues, including the Premier League and La Liga.
5. Shola Ogundana is the first Nigerian player to be named Hero of the Tournament in the Copa Libertadores U20.