19-year-old Nigerian forward Hafiz Ibrahim played a pivotal role in Reims’ 2-1 victory in the Coupe de France semi-final, scoring the decisive goal to send his team to the final.
With his effective play and clinical finishing, Reims advanced to the final, a feat not achieved since 1977. Ibrahim will now face PSG in the cup final.
Born in Kano, Nigeria, Ibrahim first caught attention at the 2023 Viareggio Cup. His goal-scoring ability attracted the interest of clubs such as Chelsea and Bodø/Glimt.
Chelsea, in particular, showed great interest and invited him for a trial at Stamford Bridge. He trained with both Chelsea’s first team and U19 squad, even scoring a hat-trick in a session attended by club owner Todd Boehly.
Due to his impressive performances, Ibrahim was expected to be signed by Chelsea.
The young Nigerian star spent two months in London, continuing his training, but the negotiations broke down at the final stage, and his potential Premier League transfer was canceled.
As a result, Ibrahim’s European journey began with the French club Reims. Initially joining their youth team, he quickly impressed and earned a promotion to the senior squad.
Once overlooked by Chelsea, the young talent now has the chance to prove himself again on a big stage against French giants PSG.