By: Abdullahi Inuwa
Katsina Football Academy (KFA) has recorded another major breakthrough in its quest to develop young football talents, as six promising players have secured invitations for a two-week trial with Belarusian Premier League side Torpedo Zhodino.
The development follows the successful conclusion of the His Excellency Malam Dikko Umaru Radda Tournament 2.0, where scouts identified outstanding talents for potential opportunities abroad.
According to KFA management, the selected players are expected to begin their trials in Belarus on July 14, 2026, upon completion of all travel and documentation requirements.
The players invited for the European trials are Ismail Nuhu from Katsina Local Government Area, Salis Makama from Bakori, Alhassan Sheriff from Katsina, Aliyu Abdullahi from Daura, Ahmed Mukhtar from Bakori, and Yusuf Umar from Malumfashi Local Government Area.
The invitation is being celebrated as a significant milestone for the academy and a major opportunity for the young footballers to showcase their talents on an international stage.
KFA disclosed that the six players represent the first batch of successful candidates selected by the Belarusian club’s scouts, adding that a second batch of invited players will be announced in due course.
Speaking on the achievement, the Director of Katsina Football Academy, Shamsuddeen Ibrahim, congratulated the players on their selection and encouraged them to remain focused and disciplined as they pursue their ambitions of becoming professional footballers in Europe.
He expressed confidence in their abilities and urged them to make the most of the opportunity by demonstrating their skills, determination and professionalism during the trials.
Shamsuddeen also acknowledged the unwavering support of Governor Dikko Umaru Radda, noting that the governor’s commitment to youth development and sports promotion has played a crucial role in the academy’s growing successes.
He said the academy remains committed to discovering and nurturing young talents capable of representing Katsina State and Nigeria on the global stage.
The latest achievement further strengthens Katsina Football Academy’s reputation as a breeding ground for emerging football talents, while offering renewed hope to young athletes aspiring to build successful careers in the sport.
For the six youngsters, the Belarus invitation represents more than just a trial—it is a golden opportunity to turn their dreams of European football into reality.



