Dino SC President stops by in Belgium, checks on former player, Ogonna Hyacinth at Westerlo

 

Chief Samuel Columbus, a prominent figure in Nigerian football and President of Dino SC, recently visited Belgian Jupiler Pro League side Westerlo Football Club. 

The purpose of his trip was to check on former Dino Sporting Club player, Ogonna Hyacinth, who joined Westerlo during the summer transfer window.

Columbus, who is the founder of the well-regarded Dino Sporting Club, also held discussions with Westerlo's coaching staff and management to further strengthen the partnership between the two entities. 

This collaboration focuses on the development and progress of players who have transitioned from his academy to European clubs.

Known for nurturing young talents, Dino Sporting Club has facilitated the transfer of several promising Nigerian players abroad, including Stephen Ende, Timilehin Adekunle, and Blessing Edet.

The academy is widely regarded as one of the top football development centers in Nigeria, producing a steady stream of talent for both domestic and international clubs.

Columbus remains committed to ensuring the growth and success of the players who have graduated from his academy to pursue their professional careers in Europe.

Meet Hyacinth Ogonna, talented footballer whose Messi's arrival at Barcelona inspired him to strive for greatness

By Wale Mustapha

For Hyacinth Ogonna, playing football remains his motivation, source of joy and avenue to become great. 

The enterprising young forward is fast becoming one of the talented players penciled for greatness in a foreseeable future. 

He arrived at Dino Sporting Club in 2017 as a relatively unknown player but quickly became the face of the fast rising youth team in Nigeria.

Ogonna recently signed a three year deal with Belgian club side, Westerlo FC to continue his development as a footballer. 

In this exclusive interview with OnwardNews24, Ogonna talked about his football journey so far, highest moments in football and source of motivation to strive for more. 

Q: What inspired you to start playing football? 

Ogonna: I started playing football at a very young age, playing football makes me happy and I enjoyed it, so I said that I will be a professional footballer, it’s what I love doing the most.

Q: Is there a coach or athlete that you look up to as a role model and why?

Ogonna: It's Lionel Messi. His story of arrival in Barcelona always motivates me. It taught me that when they doubt you prove them wrong with your best performance always. 

Q: What do you believe is the greatest challenge most athletes are facing today?

Ogonna: My perspective I think is consistency.

Q: What are your highest moments in the colors of Dino SC?

Ogonna: My highest moments in the colors of Dino SC was when we won the TCC Cup. It was a moment of greatness being able to be among the players to win a trophy for the club. It's amazing moments for me. 

Q: How much has playing in Dino influence your career and as a person?

Ogonna: Dino SC played a very big role in my life, on and off the pitch, it's helped shape my attitude, development, exposure, experience and so on, I was guided.

Dino SC is a family to me and a big thanks to Dino family.

Q: Tell us about the person, Chief Samuel Columbus and who he is to you?

Ogonna: Chief Samuel Ali Columbus is like a father to me. 

I’m really thankful to him for believing in me even when there were critics, he only saw the light in me and also showed and guided me in the right path to success. 

He treats and loves me like a son and I’m grateful to him because he's a Godsent to me.

Q: What are the preparations you think Dino has given you to be a champion?

Ogonna: I learned that to be a champion you must have a good attitude, be hard working and dedicated, be the best in what you love to do best, be exceptional, always be ready.

If you believe you can achieve anything you put your mind to it. 

Q: What are your dreams in football?

Ogonna: To play for the best teams in the world, win the world's best player, win a champions league trophy, win the World Cup with my country Nigeria, to be recognized as one of the greatest footballers of all time. 

Q: Have you set any target for yourself over there in Belgium?

Ogonna: Yes I have set my target and I believe I will achieve them.

Hyacinth Ogonna : Dino SC forward completes switch to Belgian side, Westerlo FC

Highly rated Nigeria youngster, Hyacinth Ogonna has been announced as a new player of Belgian top division side, KSV Westerlo after completing his movement from Dino Sporting Club.

The talented midfielder has signed a three year contract with an option for an additional year.

Ogonna's move marks the conclusion of an immensely successful period at Dino Sporting Club, where he has been a key player since joining as a young prospect. 

Known for his sharp instincts in front of goal, exceptional vision, and versatility, Ogonna has consistently demonstrated a remarkable work ethic and adaptability across various roles on the pitch.

During his time with Dino SC, Ogonna played a crucial role in establishing the club as a formidable force in the Creative League Championship. His contributions helped the team secure three runner-up finishes and achieve a historic maiden Cup victory in a memorable campaign.

Last season, Ogonna's impact extended beyond domestic competitions, as he played a significant part in guiding the team to the quarter-finals of the prestigious Vierragio Cup in Italy.

"Coaching Ogonna Hyacinth has been a privilege. From the moment he stepped onto the pitch as a young talent, it was clear he had something special. His drive, dedication, and commitment to improving every day have made him not just a standout player, but also a leader within our young squad.

Ogonna's versatility, intelligence on the ball, and relentless work ethic have been instrumental in our successes over the years. He has always been willing to learn, adapt, and take on challenges, which is why he has grown into the exceptional player he is today." Coach Godwin Gibson said.

Club Chairman Samuel Columbus expressed his gratitude and best wishes for Ogonna's future, stating: "Ogonna has been a pleasure to work with from the moment he joined Dino Sporting Club. 

"His attitude and commitment have been exemplary, which is reflected in his development and success on the field. The goals he scored and the trophies he helped us win speak volumes about his winning mentality. We are proud of the player he has become and look forward to seeing him continue to flourish in his career."

"He arrived at the club as a young talent, and we are proud of the progress he has made with us. He is undoubtedly one of the brightest talents in the game today."

Everyone at Dino Sporting Club extends their heartfelt best wishes to Ogonna Hyacinth as he embarks on this exciting new chapter in his career.

By Wale Mustapha

NLO1: Five Star Ogonna Okoro inspires Dino Sporting Club to crumble Olumo

Dino Sporting Club delivered a resounding 12-0 victory over Olumo United in their recent clash in the Nationwide LeagueOne, NLO1 playoffs on Wednesday.

Led by the stellar performance of Ogonna Hyacinth, who netted an impressive five goals, Dino Sporting Club showcased their prowess on the field, securing their third win of the campaign.

Solomon Etim set the tone with a well-executed goal, followed swiftly by Ogonna Hyacinth's close-range strike to double the lead. 

Henry Madubuku extended the advantage with a successful penalty kick, while Zakari Haruna sealed the first half with a fourth goal just before halftime.

Returning from the break, Ogonna Hyacinth wasted no time in adding to the tally, securing his second goal of the game. 

The onslaught continued as Stephen Ende notched the sixth goal, before Ogonna Hyacinth completed his hat-trick in dazzling fashion just minutes later.

Undeterred, Ogonna Hyacinth continued his scoring spree, notching his fourth and fifth goals of the match with remarkable ease, further solidifying Dino Sporting Club's commanding lead. 

Jibril Mohammed then capped off the remarkable victory with a hat-trick of his own, completing the emphatic 12-0 triumph.

With this stunning win, Dino Sporting Club has firmly established their dominance in the NLO1 league, having won three out of their four games and securing a draw in the remaining fixture. 

Their formidable performance sends a clear message to their competitors as they aim for continued success in the league.

Back with a Bang: Ogonna returns from injury to help Dino Sporting Club make more history in TCC League

 

Ogonna Hyacinth stole the spotlight as he secured the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award in Dino Sporting Club's record-breaking win over Dannaz FC.

The talented forward, who had been sidelined due to injury following his return from the Viareggio Cup in Italy, made a triumphant return to the field.

Hyacinth's absence was keenly felt by Dino Sporting Club during his recovery period, missing out on key domestic matches. 

However, his comeback was nothing short of spectacular, as he showcased his exceptional skills by netting an impressive four goals in Dino's emphatic 7-1 victory against Dannaz FC.

This remarkable performance not only secured the victory for Dino Sporting Club but also earned Hyacinth the prestigious MVP title for his outstanding contributions on the field.

As one of Nigeria's brightest football prospects, Hyacinth's stellar display reaffirms his status as a rising star in the footballing world, promising a bright future ahead for both himself and Dino Sporting Club.

Dino SC star boys making waves at Viareggio Cup in Italy

The contingent of Dino Sporting Club currently jostling for honors and glories at the prestigious 74th Viareggio Cup in Italy are creating notable impressions, crafting a tournament filled with remarkable performances.

The squad, consisting of David Ede, Christian Nwachukwu, Pascal Okoli, Okoro Hyacinth, Stephen Ende, Ikechukwu Friday, and Amos Adzuu, proudly represents Alex Transfiguration F.A (ATFA). 

Six of these talented players have played pivotal roles, propelling the team to the quarterfinals.

Under the guidance of Dino Sporting Club Head Coach Godwin Gibson, ATFA boasts a strong lineup captained by Ogonna Okoro Hyacinth. 

Ogonna Hyacinth showcased his goal-scoring prowess against Honved Budapest of Hungary on Tuesday.

The team's journey in the preliminary round comprised three intense matches, securing a victory, a draw, and experiencing one defeat. Notably, they triumphed over RUKH L-VIV of Ukraine in the round of 16.

Now in its 74th edition, the Viareggio Cup stands as a premier tournament for young talents, providing a platform for scouts from top football clubs to identify emerging stars.

TCC League: Hyacinth Ogonna's hat trick inspires Dino to comeback win over Gbagada

 

In a remarkable display of resilience, Dino Sporting Club extended their impressive streak with yet another comeback triumph, defeating hosts Gbagada FC on Sunday. 

Coming off a commanding 5-1 victory against Iganmu Tigers in the Cup, the squad, under the guidance of Godwin Gibson, showcased unwavering determination by netting three goals in the second half to secure a 3-2 win.

Despite trailing 1-0 at halftime and facing an additional goal post-resumption, Gbagada FC, Dino's opponent, witnessed a remarkable turnaround orchestrated by talisman Ogonna Hyacinth, who delivered a flawless hat-trick. 

This triumphant performance propels Dino Sporting Club to the second position on the table, now trailing leaders Beyond Limits by a margin of four points.

TCC League: Dino Sporting Club makes history with record breaking victory over Iganmu Tiger

In a stunning display of dominance, Dino Sporting Club has etched their name in the TCC League history book with an unprecedented 8-1 triumph over Iganmu Tigers at the illustrious Otunba Dipo Dina's Stadium, IjebuOde on Saturday.

This resounding victory not only secured a commaning win for Dino Sporting Club but also marked the single most significant triumph by any team throughout the entirety of this season's championship.

This achievement adds to Dino Sporting Club's remarkable season, as they previously secured the distinction of being the first team to clinch four consecutive victories at the commencement of the campaign.

Highlighting this spectacular performance was Samuel Umoh, who notched an impressive hat trick, securing his first of the season and rightfully earning the coveted Man of the Match award.

Contributing to the goal fest, Dino Sporting Club's leading scorer, Ogonna Hyacinth, showcased his prowess by finding the back of the net, alongside stellar performances from Stephen Ende and James Okpe.

Completing the ensemble of triumph, Chidubem Diji and Christian Nwachukwu sealed the emphatic victory, solidifying Dino Sporting Club's status as a force to be reckoned with in the TCC League.

TCC League: Dino SC dominates Matchday Seven team of the week

 

In a remarkable display of prowess, Dino Sporting Club emerged as the dominant force in the latest Creative Championships League match day seven, securing three coveted spots in the esteemed team of the week. 

This achievement is matched only by Gbagada FC.

Talisman Ogonna Hyacinth led Dino Sporting Club's notable contingent, flanked by standout performers Amos Adzuu and Hassan Agbede. 

The trio showcased their exceptional skills, earning them well-deserved recognition in the league's best eleven.

Ogonna and Hassan Agbede formed a formidable midfield trio alongside Adamu Mukhtar of Sporting Lagos, demonstrating their cohesive playmaking abilities. 

In the attacking realm, Amos Adzuu received support from the dynamic Gbagada FC duo of Segun Fagbayi and Ridwan Gbadamosi.

Despite their individual successes, Dino Sporting Club faced a challenging battle on the field last Saturday, ultimately settling for a 2-2 draw at Otunba Dipo Dina's Stadium in Ijebu Ode. 

The match proved to be a test of resilience for the team, further solidifying their reputation in the Creative Championships League.

Ogonna Hyacinth: Talented Dino Sporting Club winger steals show at Lagos Supremacy Cup

 

In a dazzling display of skill and determination, Ogonna Hyacinth of Dino Sporting Club emerged as the standout performer in the recently concluded 2023 Supremacy Cup. 

The talented attacker not only guided his team to the championship but also earned the adoration of fans who couldn't help but chant his name in celebration.

Throughout the tournament, Hyacinth showcased his prowess with a remarkable performance, contributing a total of four goals in five matches.

His scoring exploits included a crucial goal against Corinthians, a brace against Broad City, and another decisive goal against 36 Lions in the semi-final clash.

Hyacinth's stellar form extends beyond the Supremacy Cup, as he has consistently delivered outstanding performances throughout the season, netting four goals in five TCC League matches. 

His contributions have not gone unnoticed, earning him three Man of the Match awards and one Player of the Month accolade.

With undeniable talent and a string of impressive achievements, Ogonna Hyacinth's ascent to an elite European club seems inevitable. 

The football world eagerly awaits the promising youngster's next move as he continues to shine on the pitch.

Dino SC creates new TCC League record with fourth consecutive victories

 

Dino Sporting Club has made history in The Creative Championship, TCC League on Saturday becoming the first team to win their first four games. 

Under the guidance of coach Godwin Gibson, they secured a 2-0 victory against Imperial FC at Otunba Dipo Dina's Stadium in the Matchday Four of new season.

In a goalless first half, Dino Sporting Club shifted into high gear and scored twice during the second 45 minutes.

Ogonna Hyacinth, their star player, opened the scoring with his fifth goal of the season, while Chidubem Diji sealed the historic win with his first goal of the campaign. 

With this achievement, Dino Sporting Club maintains its perfect 100% record, leading the league table after four games.

TCC League: Ogonna Hyacinth inspires Dino Sporting Club to big win at Dannaz FC

 

Dino Sporting Club continues their impressive start to the 2023/2024 Creative Championship League campaign with a commanding 3-0 win at Dannaz on Saturday.

The Godwin Gibson's tutored side arrived Onikan Stadium, Lagos, with much confidence following their opening day 4-1 win over Atlantic Business FC last weekend.

The first half was a cagey affairs as both sides cut each other out and went into the break unscratched.

Dino Sporting Club however found a way past their hosts in the second 45 minutes and scored three times, with their talisman Ogonna Hyacinth heavily involved in the goals.

Chidubem Diji netted the first goal following an assist Ogonna Hycainth.

Hyacinth added the second few minutes later, before Christian Nwachukwu sealed the memorable win with the third goal.

The victory keeps Dino Sporting Club top of the table with six maximum points with seven goals scored and one conceeded.

TCC League Preview: Dino SC takes scoring mood to Dannaz

 

Dino’s 4-1 win against Atlantic Business was the first time they scored four goals on MatchDay 1. They will be hoping to continue their rampant start to the season when they travel to face Dannaz.

If they’re to make the most of their first home game this season, Coach Fatai’s must first find their scoring boots. Dannaz drew blanks in their opening game of the season, falling to Sporting Lagos. Two losses in a row is too costly to afford at the moment.

The hosts can draw inspiration from a similar meeting that happened months back. Last season, both sides met on MatchDay 2, with Dannaz outscoring their opponents in a five-goal thriller. Coach Fatai won’t mind a similar outcome this weekend. But can they keep Coach Godwin’s boys at bay and get the win?

STAT ATTACK

It’s the second time in a row both sides are meeting on MatchDay 2 of the league season. Coincidence

MAN TO WATCH

Hyacinth Ogonna Okoro (Dino)

His double in the first game earned him the Man of the Match award. It also makes him one to watch out for in this clash.

TCC League: Coach Gibson demands more from Dino Sporting Club despite bright start to new season

 

Godwin Gibson heaped praise on Dino Sporting Club's start to the season after his side thrashed Atlantic Business 4-1 in the Creative League championship at the Otunba Dipo Dina's Stadium, Ijebu Ode.

Dino SC were in total control of the match, racing to 3-0 lead at half-time but had to hold on when the visitors pulled one back, before Ogonna Hyacinth's second goal of the afternoon secured the points.

When asked if the win was a relief after last season's struggle, Gibson said :

"It was a good game, full of goals and actions,

"I'm happy all the work we did in training was transmitted to the pitch and that's good as well."

The victory is Dino SC's first home win over their neighbors, and despite scoring four time, Gibson believes his boy should have done better .

"We should have scored more, because we missed some chances , but overall we are happy to start the season on good note.

After placing second to Beyond Limits twice, Dino SC finished in disappointing 6th position last season.

"Yes, we have started well this time, and we can't relax now. We have to improve , because we have set a target for ourselves this season . So we have to keep working." Coach Gibson conclusion.

Meanwhile Dino Sporting Club have been drawn against debutants Sporting Lagos academy in the TCC League cup.

Dino SC won the cup back in 2022.

Dino SC begins 9ja/Bundelisga scouting tourney campaign with victory

 

The maiden edition of Dino Sporting Club and Nigeria/Bundelisga Scouting football competition finally kick off in style in Ijebu Ode this Monday.

The curtain raiser at Otunba Dipo Dina Stadium saw hosts Dino Sporting Club defeated Atlantic Business by lone goal.

The Godwin Gibson's tutored side dominated the tie and should have been out of sight in the first half, but their prolificacy in front of goal, kept their visitors in the game.

Dino SC finally got the breakthrough in the second half, and it came from no one other than star forward Ogbonna Hyacinth.

Speaking after the game, the brain behind the tournament, CEO of Dino Sporting, Mr Samuel Columbus says he's pleased with the outcome. 

"We are happy and very satisfied with the opening game, 

"Although it was not perfect, and that's because no team like to start tournament with a defeat."

"Overall, I'm happy with the standard of play and we hope other teams will build on it."  He said.

Meanwhile,.Eintracht Frankfurt Sporting Director, and Chief Scout, Frank Sebastian and Corlineus Kruesser, registered FIFA German agents, Darlington Omodiagbe and Lakunle Awoyale are among the football bigwigs in attendance.

TCC League: Ogonna Hyacinth inspires Dino SC to first league win of 2023

 

Dino SC bounced back to winning ways with a 2-0 win against Iganmu Tigers in Lagos on Saturday.

The victory came after weeks of disappointing results that left the club in poor position on the Creative Championship League table.

The Coach Gibson’s side have struggled in front of goal in the league this year, scoring just three league goals in the calendar year, but they put two past Iganmu Tigers and also left with a rare clean sheet.

Talisman Ogonna Hyacinth was again in the heart of everything for Creative Championship League Cup holders and was adjudged the player of the match at the end of the game.

The win over Iganmu Tigers is the first TCC League win of the year for Dino SC and the boys will aiming to build on it.

Dino's Ogonna Hyacinth sweeps Creative Championship Week 11 award

 

Following his impressive form this season, Dino Sporting Club striker Ogonna Hyacinth has been recognized for his effort and contributions.

On Monday, the forward picked up another two accolades and was also rewarded with a place in the TCC League week 11 team of the week.

Ogonna's superb goal against Valiant FC was picked as the best goal in the whole of week 11 fixtures.

Recalled Hyacinth Ogonna-inspired Dino SC to a 4-2 win over Valiant FC in the final game of match week 11 in the Creative Championship.

The striker scored three of the four goals as Dino move up to sixth with the win, before drawing Gbadaga FC and losing to Beyond Limits.

The young forward was also selected as the winner of TCC Player of the Week 11, with Coach Godwin Gibson winning the coach accolade.

Ogonna Hyacinth remain the shining light in the season that will go down as most difficult campaign for Dino SC in the history of championship.

With Dino chances

Dino, Gbagada share spoils in six goal thriller

Dino Sporting Club failed to hold on to their incredible comeback against Gbagada as both sides settled for a draw in the final Matchday 10 fixtures of the Creative Championship League encounter played at the Dipo Dina Stadium, Ijebu-Ode on Wednesday. 

Dino SC who are still unbeaten in the last eight games needed a perfect response to clear a two early goals conceded in the first half. 

Gbagada who went into the the fixture with the mindset of revenge following their 0-2 home defeat in the reverse fixtures were two goal up within half an hour of the game through Semiu Fagbayi and Ademola Akibu, but Dino responded late on before the end of the opening half as both Elijah Adekunle and Hyacinth Ogonna make sure they head into dug out with even scoreline. 

Dino started the second half with more vigor and purpose and they went ahead for the first time in the game Ikechukwu Friday's 63rd minute strike. 

Just when the hosts were already settling for yet another win, Gbagada put their hope in shambles with an 86th minute goal from Rilwan Gbadamosi to end the game in three all. 

The result did not however do more damage to Dino's position on the log as they remain second with 20 points but more points separating them with leaders Beyond Limits. 

President of Dino SC who commended the players for their performance noted that he expected such response from Gbagada describing the result as fair one.

"I want to commend the boys, its a fair result as you know that Gbagada had lost two nil to Dino on Sunday, the return leg was supposed to have been played by Wednesday but moved to Thursday. 

"We also had a game against Giant Brillars from Enugu on Tuesday, so I commend the boys I think a bit of fatigue had set in, not withstanding the boys did well," he said. 

Edet stars as Dino SC spoils business for Atlantic Business

Defense marshal, Timothy Edet was a Trojan for Dino SC on Wednesday as his side returned to winning ways with a 2-0 away win over Atlantic Business in the Matchday 8 of The Creative Championship, TCC League.

Two first half goals from Hyacinth Ogonna and Elijah Adekunle ensured the boys of Coach Gibson Godwin remained third on the log. 

Ogonna gave Dino the lead inside opening minute of the match played at the Dipo Dina Stadium, Ijebu-Ode as he finis up a beautiful team build up.

Atlantic tried to grow into the game with some spell of dominance but their hopes were slimmed at the stroke of half an hour when in form Dino attacked, Adekunle Elijah doubled the lead for his side making Dino headed to the dug out with two goal cushion.

The resumption of the game was all about the hosts, Atlantic pulling all the strings to get back into the game but met a rock solid defense led by Edet who controlled Dino's defense and ensure his side recorded a win with a clean sheet.

The victory has however earned Dino SC 16 points from eight games, same points with defending champions, Beyond Limits who have superior goals. 

Dino SC will be traveling to Lagos for their Matchday 9 clash where they will be taking on league leaders, Gbagada FC.