Mastering Ija Ball: A Journey into the Mind of Remo Stars Head Coach, Daniel Ogunmodede

From the heart of Ikenne, Remo Stars have risen as a beacon of Ogun State’s football prowess, proudly representing the state in the Nigeria Premier Football League for over five seasons. In their wake, they’ve brought a dynamic blend of football branding and exhilarating gameplay that has disrupted the established order of traditional club football dominance in the NPFL. 

Coach Daniel training his boys before a game

At the helm of this remarkable journey stands Coach Daniel Ogunmodede, a football visionary whose audacious ideas propelled Remo Stars from the Nigeria National League into the hallowed grounds of the Nigeria Premier Football League. With innovation and determination, Coach Ogunmodede has carved a unique path through the beautiful game, earning recognition for his distinctive coaching philosophy known as “Ija Ball.” Today, we delve into the philosophy and inspiration that drives this football of football. Here is an extraordinary journey into the mind of a coach who dares to challenge the norms and redefine the essence of the game.

You’re famous for a style of play known as Ija Ball which is not without its own history or origins. Can you tell us about it in the context of your coaching philosophy and inspiration?

“Ija Ball” is my thesis for coaching, and I term it as a consistently controlled possession-keeping style. We leverage our African context by emphasizing the strength and power of individuals or the collective to score goals. “Ija” is a Yoruba word that translates to “fight,” and one of the sports that inspires that fighting spirit is combat sports. I’ve brought that combative essence into football, ensuring my players maintain unwavering consistency in every moment of the game, be it in attack or defense. This consistency, I believe, is the key to NPFL success, and it’s the inspiration behind “Ija Ball.”

In 2021, you were responsible for Remo Stars’ move from the NNL to the NPFL, after which you moved to CD Feirense in Portugal as an assistant coach. What was the move like, and how did it impact your coaching philosophy?

The move to Portugal was a pivotal moment in my coaching journey. It served as affirmation that my coaching philosophy was on the right path. The first six months were incredibly challenging and marked the toughest period in my career. However, the latter half of my time there was the best. I had the privilege of meeting influential figures, attending conferences, and gaining invaluable insights into how football operates at a global level. This experience elevated my coaching philosophy and has contributed significantly to where we are today.

Last season, Remo Stars came second in the league. What are the plans to stay on top this season?

Our journey over the past five years has been marked by steady progress. From the Nigeria National League to the Confederation of African Football competitions both the Champions League and Confederation Cup, we’ve made remarkable strides. We were close to winning the league last season only missing out by goal difference. Now, our sole aim is to claim the league title. We’ve been meticulously preparing, and our focus on youth development has been pivotal. This season, we aim to blend our youthful energy with experience to reach the pinnacle of Nigerian football.

After the team’s loss to Madema SC in the preliminary round of the CAF Champions League competition, how were you able to raise the team’s spirit, and how has that loss affected the team?

In football, victories and losses are part of the journey. We’ve experienced both, and the most important aspect is how we respond. The initial days were indeed challenging, but as a team, we rallied together, motivated the players, and focused on the bigger picture. The loss, while disappointing, has not derailed our determination. The management, staff, players and club owner were not happy after the loss. We see it as a stepping stone to our future dominance in African football.

What new tactical approach or style of play can fans expect from Remo Stars this season?

My tactical decisions are not set in stone; they adapt to our opponents. However, I am committed to making the game more lucrative in the country and bringing a synergy that entertains fans. Our style will continue to evolve, but our focus on consistency and controlled possession will remain constant.

What are your thoughts on the competition within the league this season, and what teams do you see as Remo Stars’ biggest threats?

There are no underdogs in the NPFL; every team is here to compete. We treat each opponent with the utmost respect and as if they were the toughest I see the other 19 teams like they were 19 Enyimbas or Rivers United, that’s how much respect I  have for them. I only see ourselves as the biggest threat to our own success.

What is the vision for Remo Stars over the next few years? Where do you see Remo Stars in five years?

Our vision is clear; we aim to win the league, continue being a catalyst for nurturing a new generation of players, and provide proper coaching education. Ultimately, we aspire to dominate African football in the coming years.

Remo Stars’ first league game is at Ikenne  against  Enugu Rangers. How prepared is your team for that game?

We approach every game with the same level of preparation and intensity. Our focus is not just on Enugu Rangers but on every fixture that lies ahead. Despite our recent achievements, we still consider ourselves underdogs and will not underestimate any opponent.