NPFL Debut Excites Lobi Stars Teenage Striker Collins Atule

Ex-Niger Tornadoes wonderkid, Collins Atule, made his first appearance in the Nigeria’s top league during matchday 32 fixture of the ongoing Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) between Lobi Stars and MFM FC.

The 18-year-old striker was introduced in the 65th minute of the game, to fortify his team attack and made meaningful impact with his ferocious runs and dribbles, and was a torn in the flesh for the Lagos-based team defenders.

Speaking during a telephone conversation, the teenage striker, expressed his delight about his debut and stated that the coaching crew, the players assisted him in settling down quickly into the team.

“Talking about the way I feel. I’m honored to feature in such an important match because it’s a relegation battle between our team and MFM FC.

“Both teams are currently in a critical condition although we have upper hand, going into game because of the points and goals difference so it was indeed a great pleasure for me.

“I’m also impressed by the way the older players of the team, the coaching crew welcomed me to the club. They always encouraged me and that has really helped me to settle down quick into the team and I’m happy I finally made my top flight debut for the team,” he concluded.

The out-and-out talented forward, who could dribble like a winger and also run like a sprinter with good ability to finish the ball, joined Niger Tornadoes in second stanza of the 2021/22 Nigeria National League (NNL), the second tier league in Nigeria and helped them gain promotion to the elite league. 

Collins made seven appearances for Tornadoes in the Nigerian lower league and scored four goals including his debut goal and assist. His contribution to the team’s promotion to the NPFL was evident and cannot be overemphasized.