Benin City, Nigeria – The football community in Nigeria is in mourning as news of the passing of former international footballer and coach, Sebastian Brodericks Imasuen, spreads across the nation.
The revered soccer tactician, who played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s football history, succumbed to a prolonged illness at the age of 85 in Benin City on Wednesday.
Sources close to the family, speaking on condition of anonymity due to lack of authorization, revealed that Coach Brodericks Imasuen had been battling health issues suspected to be related to stroke and diabetes. His significant contributions to Nigerian football include leading the U-17 team to victory in China and securing Nigeria’s first World Cup in 1985.
Read also:Â Edison Ehie: Governor Fubara Clarifies Why Rivers State Speaker Reigned
A distinguished figure in both playing and coaching capacities, Brodericks Imasuen represented Nigeria at the Mexico 1968 Olympic Games as a player. Fondly known as ‘Sabara’ during his playing days, he etched his name in football history with a memorable free-kick goal that secured Bendel Insurance Football Club of Benin the Challenge Cup in 1972.
His coaching career was marked by notable achievements, notably guiding the Nigerian team to the U-17 World Cup victory in 1985. Additionally, he steered the team to the final in 1987 in Canada, narrowly losing to the Soviet Union in a penalty shootout. Despite setbacks in subsequent attempts, his impact on Nigerian football remained indelible.
Brodericks Imasuen initiated his football journey in 1956 as a student, featuring for the Onitsha team in the Challenge Cup. Joining ECN in 1962, he was part of the Challenge Cup-winning side of 1965. While invited to the national team in 1962, his prominence grew in the lead-up to the 1968 Olympic Games.
Read also:Â Dollar to Naira Black Market exchange rate today, January 3, 2024 | dollar to naira today
Transitioning to coaching, he achieved success with the Midwest junior side, securing a gold medal at the inaugural National Sports Festival in 1973. Later, he served as an assistant coach to Clemens Westerhof in the Super Eagles.
The legacy of Coach Sebastian Brodericks Imasuen transcends victories and championships, leaving an indelible mark on Nigerian football that will be remembered for generations to come. The football fraternity extends heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the entire nation mourning the loss of a true football icon.
