Kevin Martins, son of former Nigeria international Obafemi Martins, has made an impressive start to his senior career by helping Monza secure a 3-1 victory over Brescia in the Coppa Italia.
The 19-year-old striker, who holds both Italian and Nigerian passports, played the full match at the U-Power Stadium, propelling Monza into the round of 16, where they will face Bologna away in December.
In a highly anticipated debut, Martins seized the opportunity presented by coach Alessandro Nesta.
While he didn’t score, he played a pivotal role by providing the assist for the game’s opening goal, which was scored by Georgios Kyriakopoulos.
This weekend, Martins will have another chance to showcase his skills as Monza squares off against the reigning Serie A champions, Napoli.
Martins is already following in the footsteps of his father, who will turn 40 next month. The former striker enjoyed a successful career, winning the Scudetto, Supercoppa Italiana, and two editions of the Coppa Italia during his time at Inter Milan.
Super Eagles Eligibility and Future Prospects
Despite representing Italy at the U15 level, Martins has the option to switch allegiance to Nigeria, mirroring his father’s journey.
Obafemi Martins scored 18 goals in 42 appearances for the Super Eagles between 2004 and 2015 and gained fame as a teenager at Inter from 2002 to 2006.
He later represented clubs like Newcastle United, Wolfsburg, Birmingham City, Levante, and Seattle before retiring in January 2021.As Kevin Maussi Martins starts his career, the decision of whether to continue with Italy or pledge his future to Nigeria remains uncertain. However, his debut has certainly captured the attention of football fans in both nations.