GO Spives

The harsh truth:

Studies suggest that less than 0.1% of African grassroots footballers ever get seen by a licensed scout. Of those who are scouted, even fewer make it into an academy, let alone sign professional contracts.

Huge Talent Pool, Few Opportunities:

Across Africa, millions of young footballers showcase their skills on local pitches, schools, and community leagues every day. Yet only a handful are ever seen by scouts or academies. Globally, less than 1% of academy players turn professional — and in Africa, the chances are even slimmer due to limited scouting networks.

Exploitation & Fake Agents:

Many young African footballers fall victim to fake agents who exploit their dreams with false promises of trials abroad. Families often make huge sacrifices, only for players to end up stranded. This widespread fraud creates mistrust, making it harder for genuine scouts to find talent and leaving many opportunities lost.

The One Who Passed His Prime:

Emeka was once the brightest star on his street, dazzling crowds at every youth tournament. Coaches called him "the next big thing."

But as years passed, opportunities never came. Now in his early thirties, with younger players taking the spotlight, he knows his window has closed. His talent was never in doubt — but talent alone was never enough.

The One Who Feels Invisible:

Kwame trains harder than anyone on his team, yet every time scouts visit, he’s overlooked. He wonders if it’s his size, his background, or simply bad luck. "

Deep down, fear grows: What if nobody ever notices me? Every missed chance feels heavier, and the dream that once fueled him now feels like a shadow he’s chasing.

The One Who Still Hopes:

Abiola is only 14, full of energy and belief. He watches the older boys in his neighborhood who never got their break, and he prays he won’t be like them. "

Every night he tells himself, I’ll make it. I won’t let my story end before it starts. His dream is fragile but alive — carried on the hope that one day, someone will see him.