In a recent interview, Favour Kalu, a versatile midfielder for Athlético FC d’Abidjan, discussed her football career, challenges on and off the pitch, playing in Ivory Coast, and her aspirations in football. Here are the key points from the interview:
Favour Kalu expressed her excitement about becoming a CAF player and contributing to Athletico’s third-place finish in the WAFU qualifiers for the CAF Champions League.
She admitted that settling down in Ivory Coast has not been easy, particularly with differences in language, food, and the environment. She mentioned using hand and face gestures to communicate with her teammates.
Favour Kalu revealed that her parents initially had reservations about her playing football but eventually supported her because of her determination.
She mentioned that her love for football began at a young age, and despite facing numerous challenges, she never gave up on her dream of becoming a professional footballer.
Favour Kalu acknowledged that she encountered difficult situations during her early football career, including a lack of basic necessities like food, water, and proper clothing. She also mentioned incidents of harassment and advances from coaches and teammates.
She agreed with the notion that some women footballers are lesbians but emphasized that it’s a matter of personal choices and circumstances.
Favour Kalu discussed the perception of women footballers in society, noting that women’s football is gradually gaining recognition globally, although some still consider female footballers as illiterate and undervalued.
She highlighted the disparity in treatment between male and female footballers, particularly in Nigeria, where female footballers may not receive the same level of support and recognition as their male counterparts.
Favour Kalu expressed her hopes of playing football in Europe in the near future, with faith in God and hard work as her driving forces.
She believes that she can break into the Nigerian national team, the Falcons, someday with her talent and determination. However, she remains open to representing other countries if the opportunity arises.
Favour Kalu compared football in Ivory Coast and Nigeria, stating that Nigerian football is better organized but Ivorian football offers better opportunities to play abroad.
While she doesn’t have a specific role model, Favour admires Cristiano Ronaldo for his work ethic and the fact that he doesn’t have tattoos, as she personally dislikes tattoos.
In the interview, Favour Kalu shared her journey as a young female footballer, highlighting both the challenges she has faced and her determination to succeed in the sport. She also expressed her ambition to play at the international level and her respect for hardworking athletes like Cristiano Ronaldo.