Unity Preseason Tourney: Mahanaim captain not afraid of Wikki, Doma Utd, EFCC

Captain of Mahanaim FC, Light Maduabuchi has expressed confidence to challenge for honors against the celebrated top clubs ahead of the Unity Preseason Tournament which takes center stage in Abuja this week.

The draw ceremony saw Mahanaim FC, a non-league club based in the North Central paired in Group D with Wikki Tourist, Doma United and EFCC FC and aim to distinguish themselves at any major events since its launch.

Maduabuchi, who was obviously elated with the outcome of the tournament’s draw, expressed optimism about his side’s readinesss but did not downplay the tough battle ahead in the competition.

“Football is a game of equal number of players, playing Wikki Tourist, Doma United and EFCC is a challenge that would be surmounted before our first game, and when the event kicks start on 22nd of this month, which is this coming weekend,” Maduabuchi told Nigeriafootball.ng.

“Its a testing ground for us and also for other teams, it will help us get better as a team and we are ready to give other contenders a good game that will help them prepare for new season.”

When asked if their first time participation would affect their chances of progressing, the team’s captain, who is equally dubbed as ‘Lightinho’  appreciated the organizers for extending one of the invites to Mahanaim FC.

“We are new in the tournament but not a new team on the field of play,” he continued.

“I have received several overwhelming calls from our fans, football lovers within FCT and beyond regarding the pairing with these top teams and I have consistently maintained strongly that, we are equal to the tasks.

“Of a Truth, Wikki Tourist is a major factor but not a fear factor and as for Doma United, their promotion to NPFL showed how formidable they are amongst other NNL sides.

“EFCC of Abuja are a familiar foes and we wouldn’t disregard any of our opponents but we shall show the world what Mahanaim FC is capable of professionally, in the competition, he said.

The captain took time out to show appreciation to the organisers ahead of the commencement of the pre-season.

“As a team that loves showing gratitude, we are thanking the brains behind the Unity Preseason Tourney, led by veteran journalist and certified coach, Mr Patrick Ngwaogu, alongside the two other-men with letters, otherwise known as Pen- pushers for the opportunity given to Mahanaim to be part of this year’s event, which is also the second edition as well.

“We promise to be professional, responsible in our usual courteous manner, as we are not taking this Golden chance for granted because we were not given gratuitously,” Light concluded with utmost assurance

The unity preseason competition is basically for the purpose of preparing NPFL and other league teams before the new season, which is definitely going to help continental representatives as well.

Former NPFL champions, Plateau United defeated Nasarawa United by a lone goal to hoist the maiden edition of the Unity Preseason Tourney on the 5th of November, 2021.