By Seun Sanni
WARRI, Nigeria, Jan 15 (Reuters) - A 12-year-old boy from
Nigeria who set a world record for the most consecutive soccer
ball touches in one minute while balancing a second ball on his
head is planning to take his skills global when he grows up.
Chinonso Eche, from the city of Warri in southern Nigeria,
has become an online sensation, with videos of his tricks
attracting thousands of viewers.
Inspired by footage of footballers Lionel Messi and
Cristiano Ronaldo, as well as retired Nigerian midfielder
Jay-Jay Okocha, Chinonso said he mostly taught himself.
"Nobody taught me but my father made an impact in my life by
showing me some videos... and I picked it up from there."
Chinonso managed 111 football touches in 60 seconds while a
second ball balanced on his head, earning him a place in the
2021 edition of the Guinness World Records, the first time it is
included in the annual reference book.
The boy, now backed by a management company, hopes his
talents will turn into an international career.
"My dream is to become a footballer and international
freestyler, and travel all over the world," he said.
Chinonso's next target is 2,000 consecutive touches, while
balancing a ball on his head.