Oduamadi: “The Varese team is my plane to Brazil”

 His return to Varese after six months was very warmly welcomed by the supporters, who expect a lot from him. And so far, Nnamdi Oduamadi, has not let them down, scoring three times (twice in Reggio Calabria and once against Empoli), and when he succeeded in scoring, Varese were even able to win the match.

Last Tuesday evening, his goal was crucial in winning a home victory, which had not been achieved since December 14. However, his performances are not only of goal-scoring, but also of lots of sprinting, dribbling and thrilling dashes, with the hope that he will be selected for the Nigerian team, for the Brazilian World Cup.

Odu, last Tuesday evening, Varese had a different attitude, you were much more positive and aggressive than in the last few matches.

"We’re happy because, in our last two matches, we did well, and especially against Empoli, we won a very important victory. We’ve got back a lot of grit and a desire to win points."

Yes, Empoli was won with your hearts, after so long time, in front of your fans at the Franco Ossola Stadium.

"We’re very happy to be back winning at home, because, in a championship like Serie B, it’s essential to score points at home. But we won’t let it get to our heads, we need to focus on saving the team, and in the meantime, let’s try not to break loose from the train that might lead us to the playoffs. Varese’s supporters have always shown their faith in us, and this has enabled me, and the whole team, to celebrate again, also at the Franco Ossola Stadium.”

Incidentally, of the three goals you’ve scored since you returned to Varese, two were with headshots, which certainly isn’t your best weapon.

"That’s true: even my father couldn’t believe it when I told him on the phone. Last spring, I scored some, but never as a professional. I think this is the result of my strong desire to do well; I always try to get on the ball, to be dangerous, to score with my foot or my head, it makes no difference."

What do you think the season’s finale will be?

"We’re playing well now, and I hope we continue to. Once again, our main aim is to be sure we’re safe, but with the help of the coach, who psychs us up and always motivates us a lot, we might even make it to the playoffs. We’ll believe it all the way."

Next Saturday, you’re playing against Palermo. Among them, there’s Lazaar, who was a teammate of hours here in Varese, last year. What kind of match will it be?

"We mustn’t think just that, as Palermo is at the top of the league, we should only play defence. In fact, we must try to play our game, and put the other team in difficulty. On their team, as well as Lazaar, I also know Lazarevic well, as he was teammate at Torino. They’re all talented players, but we need three points, because if we manage to get 43 points, I think our prospects will be quite different.”

We can’t not ask you about the Brazilian World Cup. Last summer, you even scored a hat-trick with Nigeria, in the Confederation Cup; now you’d like to go to South America, I guess …

“Certainly. Playing in the World Cup is what every boy dreams of, when he starts playing football, and it’s difficult to get there. I’m always in touch with the selector for Nigeria, I let him know when I’m playing to attract his attention and get him to see me. And I know Varese can guarantee me the ticket for the plane to Brazil.”