The ongoing Ex-Internationals Cup in Lagos has continued to uncover exciting young talents, one of such of the many players who have attracted attention is Isaac John.
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A player of YAKS FC all the way from Benin, representing FC Aiyegbeni in the prestigious grassroots competition, the versatile teenager delivered a series of energetic and intelligent performances that quickly set him apart from many of his peers.
From explosive runs on the wing to disciplined defensive work, Isaac displayed the confidence, versatility and hunger of a player eager for bigger opportunities.
His on and off the ball movement cannot be ignored by football enthusiasts around the competition.
Though Aiyegbeni FC was knocked out in the round of 32, the Akwa Ibom-born youngster, pace, composure and work ethic became one of the talking points of the tournament.
In an exclusive chat with Sports247, the promising attacker opened up on his football journey, his sacrifices and his dream of reaching the highest level of the game.
Isaac revealed that his love for football started at a very young age.
Like many Nigerian youngsters chasing a dream with a ball at their feet, he developed through grassroots football, beginning his career with Rockers Football Academy before moving to Yak Sports FC, where his talent continued to grow.
His development soon produced results.
The 18-year-old was part of teams that competed successfully in several youth competitions, including winning the prestigious 2017 NNPC/Shell Cup, a tournament known for discovering future stars.
Primarily a left-wing attacker, Isaac possesses the ability to stretch defenders with speed and direct play, but what makes him particularly valuable is his versatility.
He can also operate comfortably as an attacking midfielder or right back, giving coaches multiple tactical options.
His football education has also taken him beyond local competitions.
Isaac earned invitations to Nigeria’s Under-17 and Under-20 setups, experiences he described as major moments in his young career.
He also featured for Bendel Insurance Team B before securing a move to FC City Abuja, where he continued his development against more competitive opposition.
One of the defining moments in his journey came during a football trip to Brazil — a country globally respected for producing some of the game’s greatest talents.
The exposure further sharpened his understanding of the game and strengthened his ambition to succeed professionally.
At the Ex-Internationals Cup in Lagos, Isaac looked like a player determined to announce himself.
Every touch carried confidence, every run had purpose, and every duel reflected a young footballer trying to seize his moment.
Despite his age, he plays with maturity and tactical awareness, combining attacking flair with discipline off the ball.
His willingness to adapt into different positions also highlights a modern football profile that many coaches value today.
For Isaac, however, this is only the beginning.
“I believe I’m ready for the big stage because I have worked hard for this moment. Playing in Lagos against strong opponents has given me more confidence.
My dream is to play professional football at the highest level and make my family and Nigeria proud,” he told Sports247.
