Meet Slyvester Igboun’s nephew Desmond Basil who is also a footballer and trying to enter the industry. He recently spoke with New National Star reporter Esther Egbe about how he started and more.
Why football?
What influenced you into football?
I saw someone playing football on the street so he was playing so differently from us so I wanted to play just like that too.
What qualities do you have that make you a good football player?
I pay attention to details. I see opportunities that can help my team achieve something in every game, I know how to make key decisions when it is crunch time.
How do you handle stress and high-pressure situations as a football player?
Usually, I just meditate and pray because I believe in the power of prayers. Sometimes, listening to music it helps me too.
Describe a time when you had to make a difficult decision as a football player?
In a particular match some time ago, already in the 90+ minutes we were leading 2:1, in the long run, the opponents were attacking so I was the last man on the defense line I have to tackle but then if it’s successful then the game on but if it’s not then I’d get a card. I had to risk it, I got a red card, they played the free kick, and God so good they did not score. After that the final whistle but then I got the red for the team.
Tell us about your uncles that influence you into football?
My uncle is a big name in Nigerian football and in Europe, he is Slyvester Igboun
He plays center forward and a right footer, he has played for clubs like Ufa, Dinamo Moscow and more.
How old are you? Where have you played so far?
I’m 17 years old and I have played with Pepsi Football Academy and Young Star FC, presently I am with Football @talent.
How has your uncle help your career?
He has given me boots, jerseys and also he has advised me regarding to my career.
Do you see yourself like him or going to be better than him?
I know I will be better than my uncle.
What at do you love most about soccer?
Playing soccer one will get to travel round the world, meet different people learn different cultures and languages.
What was your favorite soccer moment?
I will say the 2022 world cup final.
How did you become a professional soccer player?
Started all from the street I walked up to a friend that use to play far better than me,
who I have always admired he took me to the field and from there the rest was history.
What do you think makes soccer the best sport in the world?
The level of exposure and fun
Who’s your favorite soccer player and why?
Who’s your biggest rival and why?
Wolex is a friend he has always wanted to be and then I’ve accepted it that way.