CHENNAI: It’s been an eventful five years in India for Nigerian Jagaba Hamza. Playing for Chennai FC in the CFA Senior Division League, the No 9 is optimistic about future. “I will leave for Malta with my agent soon after the Chennai league to practise and improve. I want to play in the ISL and hope this trip will help me achieve it,” said the 28-year-old.
Having played in the I- League for HAL and Salgaocar FC, the striker is no stranger to challenges. “I started my professional career in India with BEML SC in Bangalore. They didn’t make it to I-league and I shifted to HAL.”
Hamza, who top scored for BEML SC and HAL, is doing the same in Chennai. His opening goal and all-round performance helped his team thrash minnows Arrows FC 7-2 on Friday. “In I-League, we played with India’s best and facilities were top class. But CFA is very competitive. Last year, we lost to Hindustan Eagles FC by two points. It was very difficult for me and I hope I get the trophy this year.”
Apart from football, the Nigerian is also a tennis man. “I play with my friends when I have time. Other than that, we go for swimming and enjoy our free time to the maximum. Chennai has been very kind to me so far and I settled in easily.”
Hamza loves India but initially found it difficult to adjust to the lifestyle and food. After three years in Bengaluru, he is getting used to it. “I enjoy the coffee and hang out in cafes with friends.”
Asked about his secret, Hamza was humble. “I concentrate on my next game and prepare so that I can play to potential every time. Once I do my part, I leave the rest to the almighty.”
Super Division: Chennai FC 7 (Jagaba Hamza 5; Opara 12, 79; Anurf Yoonge 13, Edwin Sydney Vanspaul 60; Nirmal 84, Deepak Prakash) bt Arrows 2 (Ghanefoans Sumanakromah 75, 89). First Division: Income Tax RC 0 SAI 0.