Sam Anozie Reflects on His Everlasting’ Iwuanyanwu Nationale FC Journey

Sam Anozie, a former player and captain of Iwuanyawu Nationale FC, recently shared his enduring memories of playing for the club, highlighting the significant impact it had on his life and career. Anozie, who narrowly missed out on joining the 1985 Flying Eagles team for the FIFA U20 World Cup, became a formidable defender for Iwuanyawu Nationale before an injury forced him into early retirement. Despite this setback, he continued to serve the club as its secretary.

In a heartfelt tribute to the late Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyawu, the club’s proprietor, Anozie reflected on the unforgettable experiences he had with the team. He recounted how Chief Iwuanyawu, advised by Prince Lemmy Akakem and Sir Uche Ejimofor, recruited some of the best football talent in the country, including securing coach Willy Bazuaye. Anozie fondly remembered the club’s tour of Brazil, the players’ camaraderie, and their formidable presence in the Nigerian Premier League.

Anozie also recalled the challenges and triumphs the team faced, including their second-place finish in the league, which earned them a spot in the WAFU competition, and their memorable 1988 CAF Champions League run, where they reached the final but lost to Setif of Algeria under controversial circumstances. He highlighted key moments, such as their encounters with Tonnere Kalala of Cameroon and Asec Mimosa of Ivory Coast, where tactical decisions by their Greek coach Teophanis Dimitris played crucial roles in their victories.

Anozie emphasized that Iwuanyawu Nationale was more than just a football club it was a brand that became a nightmare for many other teams and a source of pride for its supporters. The club’s success, including multiple league titles and a Federation Cup victory, was a testament to the dedication of its players and the visionary leadership of Chief Iwuanyawu. Anozie concluded by expressing his gratitude for the opportunities provided by the club, which empowered countless youths across Nigeria.

Editorial

Sam Anozie’s reflections on his time with Iwuanyawu Nationale FC offer a nostalgic glimpse into one of Nigeria’s most storied football clubs. His recounting of the team’s rise to prominence under the guidance of Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyawu underscores the importance of strong leadership and vision in football. The club’s success during this era was not just about winning titles; it was about building a legacy that would inspire future generations of Nigerian footballers.

Anozie’s memories also highlight the crucial role that coaching and tactical decisions play in the success of a football team. The anecdotes about coach Teophanis Dimitris’ bold decisions, such as converting players to different positions, demonstrate the impact that innovative and fearless coaching can have on a team’s performance. These stories serve as valuable lessons for current and future football coaches in Nigeria and beyond.

The story of Iwuanyawu Nationale is a reminder of how football can be a powerful tool for youth empowerment. Through the opportunities provided by the club, many young players, like Anozie, were able to develop their talents and achieve success both on and off the pitch. As Nigerian football continues to evolve, it is essential to remember the foundations laid by clubs like Iwuanyawu Nationale and the figures who played pivotal roles in their history.

Did You Know?

1. Iwuanyawu Nationale FC, now known as Heartland FC, was one of Nigeria’s most successful football clubs in the 1980s and 1990s, winning multiple league titles and cups.
2. Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyawu, the club’s proprietor, was a prominent Nigerian businessman and philanthropist who used football as a means to empower the youth and promote the sport in Nigeria.
3. The 1988 CAF Champions League final against Setif of Algeria is remembered as one of the most controversial matches in the club’s history, with many Nigerian fans believing the team was unfairly treated.
4. Teophanis Dimitris, the Greek coach of Iwuanyawu Nationale, was known for his unorthodox tactics, including converting players to new positions, which often led to surprising and successful outcomes.
5. The nickname “Naze Millionaires” was given to Iwuanyawu Nationale because of the camp developed for the team in Naze, where players were reportedly well compensated for their efforts.