The Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) might barely be three weeks old, but the race for the league’s top scorer crown is already gaining ground.
Godwin Obaje of Wiki Tourist finished as highest goalscorer last season with 18 goals.
However, it looks likely that his record might be eclipsed by one man this term – his name is Stephen Odey.
Odey who plays for Mountain of Fire Ministries FC (MFM FC) is proving to be one of the league’s most lethal marksmen.
The 18-year-old was phenomenal for the Olukoya Boys in their topflight debut last season – scoring nine goals – out of which eight were at the Agege Stadium.
Odey is already proving to be a torn on the flesh of defenders this season with four goals in just three games – including a hat-trick in the 4-0 bashing of Lobi Stars on Sunday.
Just like last term, all four of his goals have come at home in front of his family and friends.
His goals have propelled MFM FC to two victories and fourth on the log.
But Odey’s attacking prowess didn’t just start today.
The youngster was outstanding during his GTB Principals Cup days – a tournament designed for Secondary schools in Lagos.
He struck 16 goals on two occasions en route to clinching the title with Dairy Farm Senior Secondary, Agege.
“I am so excited that I scored the first hat-trick of the season. The credit must go to my team mates who assisted me to achieve it because football is a collective effort,” Odey said after Sunday’s clash.
“I am glad that I’m leading the goals chart now. Hopefully, I can finish as the highest goal scorer of the NPFL, but it is too early to discuss that. I just want to focus on how to assist my team in the league.
“I stayed back in MFM to continue my development as a player. The coach (Fidelis Ilechukwu) has confidence in me also and so even when several clubs wanted me to join them, I insisted on staying at MFM.”
Ilechukwu will certainly be hoping his leading marksman continues his superb form when they visit Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) on Wednesday.
