Nigerian throw-in star dubbed 'New Delap' named Gothia Cup MVP in historic Sporting Lagos win

Akomolede Babatunde's extraordinary performance at the 2024 Gothia Cup in Sweden reached its pinnacle as he was crowned the tournament's Most Valuable Player (MVP).

Babatunde’s award capped off a historic run that saw Sporting Lagos become the first Nigerian team to lift the prestigious Gothia Puma Trophy.

The young prodigy's unparalleled throw-in skills, which had been the talk of the tournament, helped the youngster to be rightfully recognised with the top individual honour.

Babatunde's ability to turn throw-ins into dangerous attacking weapons proved instrumental in Sporting Lagos' journey to the title.

In the semifinals against fellow Nigerian side Beyond Limits, Babatunde showcased his exceptional talent by providing a hat-trick of assists from throw-ins, propelling his team to a thrilling 5-4 victory.

The final against FC Tokyo was equally impressive, with Sporting Lagos cruising to a 4-0 win on Saturday night.

Babatunde not only continued his assist spree but also scored a thunderous goal, cementing his status as the tournament's standout player.

When asked about the source of his remarkable skill, the newly-crowned MVP humbly responded, "I was born with it. I am always training, working hard on it."

This blend of natural talent and dedicated practice has clearly set Babatunde apart on the international stage.

The young star's exploits have captured the imagination of football fans worldwide, with viral videos on platforms like TikTok showcasing his incredible throw-in technique.

Comparisons to former Stoke City player Rory Delap, known for his long throw-ins, have also been drawn by fans, acknowledging Nigeria's seemingly endless pool of football talent.

Babatunde's MVP award and Sporting Lagos' triumph at the Gothia Cup represent a significant milestone for Nigerian football.

This historic achievement not only highlights Babatunde's brilliance but also underscores the depth of talent within Nigerian football, promising an exciting future for the sport in the country.