Nigeria Players Abroad
Bamidele Yusuf pledges support for grassroots girls’ football development in Nigeria

By Dayo Awoniyi
Serbia-based Nigerian striker Bamidele Isa Yusuf has reaffirmed his commitment to the development of grassroots football in Nigeria, with a particular focus on empowering young girls through the sport.
The Vojvodina FC forward made the pledge following the successful hosting of the 7-Aside Soccer Fiesta, which he sponsored. The event featured cash prizes totaling one million naira, alongside individual rewards for standout participants.
Yusuf, who finished the 2024/25 season with 18 goals and four assists in the Serbian Super Liga, says his motivation to give back stems from a desire to foster long-term growth in Nigerian football, starting at the grassroots level.
“Supporting young talents—especially girls—at the grassroots is vital for the future of Nigerian football,” Yusuf said. “I want to be part of the change that gives them equal opportunities to thrive.”
The 22-year-old striker ranked as the fourth-highest Nigerian goalscorer in Europe last season, behind Victor Osimhen (26 goals), Tolu Arokodare (21), and Ademola Lookman (20). His assist tally also surpassed fellow Nigerian Cyriel Dessers, who recorded two assists alongside 18 goals.
Despite his strong personal form, Yusuf’s club, Vojvodina FC, narrowly missed out on European qualification, finishing sixth in the league and losing to Crvena Zvezda in the Serbian Cup final.
Nevertheless, Yusuf says he remains focused on using his platform to uplift emerging talent in Nigeria, especially young girls who often face limited opportunities in football.