Nigerian striker Itodo Mandela has written his name into Dinamo Tirana’s history books after a heroic brace helped the Albanian side lift the 2025 Albanian Cup. The 24 year old forward delivered a match-defining performance in the final against Egnatia, scoring twice in a thrilling 2-2 draw that ended in a dramatic 5-4 penalty shootout victory for Tirana.
Mandela’s goals were a reflection of his dominant season, where he has netted 20 times across all competitions. Combining blistering speed, physicality, and clinical finishing, he has emerged as one of the most feared attackers in the Albanian league and a cult hero among Dinamo supporters.
Speaking after the win, an emotional Mandela said, “This is just the beginning. I’ve worked hard for moments like this, and I’m grateful to the team, the coaches, and the fans for believing in me.”
The cup marks Mandela’s first major career trophy and could well be the springboard for greater continental recognition and perhaps a Super Eagles call-up.
Editorial
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Itodo Mandela’s performance in the Albanian Cup final is the sort of fairytale football dreams are made of. It’s not just about two goals on a big stage it’s about the relentless journey behind them. From being an unknown name outside Nigeria to now standing on a winner’s podium in Europe, Mandela is fast becoming a symbol of hope for aspiring Nigerian footballers.
His development this season has been nothing short of spectacular. In a league not often highlighted on the global stage, Mandela has forced the spotlight onto himself with numbers that demand attention. What’s more important, however, is the timing—at 24, he’s entering his prime. If Nigeria is truly serious about expanding its attacking arsenal, Mandela deserves to be scouted and tested at the national level.
His attitude, too, is refreshing. In a football world full of distractions, his humility—”this is just the beginning”—says everything. We hope it is.
Did You Know?
- FC Dinamo Tirana was founded in 1950 and is one of Albania’s most decorated clubs, with over 15 league titles.
- Itodo Mandela began his professional career in Nigeria before earning a move to Europe via a second-tier Slovak club.
- His 20-goal haul this season is the highest single-season tally by a Nigerian in Albania’s top flight in over a decade.
- The Albanian Cup final was held at the Air Albania Stadium in Tirana, with a crowd of over 18,000 fans in attendance.
- Mandela is the second Nigerian to score in an Albanian Cup final, following Peter Olayinka’s strike for KF Skënderbeu in 2018.
