It is one thing to make up for lost time, and another to return with a bang.
Ghanaian forward Kofi Agyei marked his UAAP comeback in style, scoring twice in Ateneo de Manila University’s 3-0 win over Adamson University last Sunday at the Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub to hand the Blue Eagles a winning start to their Season 88 campaign.
The 23-year-old striker found the back of the net in each half, showcasing the qualities of a top-class frontman — making incisive runs behind the defense, holding up the ball for teammates, and creating danger throughout the match.
After missing an entire season due to a mix of injury and academic issues, Agyei made sure his return was felt.
“It feels good to be back, you know,” he said. “I got all the motivation from my teammates. They welcomed me back nicely. I couldn’t play last year because I had an injury and also some problems with my school grades.
“So yeah, it feels good to be back.”
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
Now back in the fold, Agyei proved that he and team captain Dov Cariño could form a lethal partnership this season — one that may propel Ateneo to greater heights.
Cariño set up Agyei’s opener before scoring a free kick of his own shortly after.
While star attackers often end up competing for the spotlight, Agyei is confident that he and Cariño will thrive together instead.
“I don’t really see any difference when it comes to me and Dov because most of the time, we’re going forward together. The communication and understanding are still there,” said the Communications major.
“I miss the guys from Season 86, but when it comes to teamwork and communication, me and Dov — we still got it.”
Now in his third playing year, Agyei confirmed that this will be his final run in the fabled blue and white jersey. At 21, he feels determined to help Ateneo reclaim the championship it last won in Season 81 after falling short in the finals twice over the past three years.
He has already given the Blue Eagles a strong start in Season 88 — and he is intent on finishing just as strongly.
“Same thing as Season 86: teamwork and communication,” said Agyei. “We listen to our coach and just focus on the game.
“One game at a time — that’s what we did last season to reach the finals. I’m hoping we can get there again this year.”
