The ability to pounce on opportunities is a key attribute for any striker, and for new Orlando Pirates front man Bievenu Eva Nga, being eager to grab any chances afforded to him has contributed to what has been a colourful football journey so far.
The Cameroonian started out at Black Stars FC, a semi-professional Club at his home country, before making stops at Gabon, Portugal and Mozambique, gathering some valuable experience along the way.
A dream season with Mozambican giants Costa do Sol mapped up his path to the South African top flight, where he enjoyed a brief spell with Bidvest Wits before impressing in the colours of Chippa United, ultimately sealing a big move to the Buccaneers ahead of the 2022/23 season.
Having scored his first goal on South African soil against the Soweto Giants, the 29-year-old is now determined to make a telling contribution at his new home. He shared some of the lessons learned along his football journey when he sat for an exclusive interview with Orlandopiratesfc.com.
Welcome to the Buccaneers. Excited about the next chapter?
EN: It feels great. I am in high spirits. I can say it’s a dream come true. I’m very happy to be part of this big Club. I’ve had a really warm welcome from people I’ve watched and seen from the outside. So, I’m really happy to be here.
What attracted you to the Club?
EN: One of the things that have attracted me is the professionalism. Everything is organised and done on time. It’s something that also helps you improve in terms of discipline, because you know that you need to do things properly, you need to work hard to be a part of the starting team. Plus it’s a big Club in South Africa.
You are one of a handful of strikers that will be competing for places in the starting lineup. How has the competition been at training?
EN: I think we all understand we’re a group first and are working towards making the team better. I know that if I’m starting I’ll need to give it my best and give it everything, and it starts at training during the week. If I’m not playing, I like to go to my teammates and wish them all the best and tell them “may God bless you and may you do well and score goals for the team”. I know that if it’s someone else’s turn to play, I must respect that.
What lessons have you taken from experiencing different leagues across the world?
EN: I learnt many things. I like to say football has given me everything. I’ve met many wonderful people. It’s also helped me grow, because I left Cameroon as a young man. Now the mentality I have is not the same mentality I had when I left home because I’ve learned many things from football. I’d like to stay in football forever. Even when I finish playing, I still want to be a part of the game. The game has given me a lot.
Any personal goals you’ve set out for this next chapter in your career?
EN: Obviously, to win more trophies and make the supporters, the Chairman and the staff happy. As a team we know that we must have something to show this season. Personally, my objective is to help the team win something this season. We have the MTN 8, the Nedbank Cup and the Premiership, and we need to win something. It’s a good thing the season is about to start because that means the start of new opportunities.
Lastly, any special message to the Ghosts?
EN: Yeah, I must thank the Orlando Pirates fans for welcoming me. This has meant a lot to me, and we can’t wait to see them come out and support us.