Ndayishimiye Youssuf, an international footballer from Burundi who currently plays for Nice in France, recently shared the compelling story of his early days with Aigle Noir CS. His journey to the team is a story of unexpected calls, self-belief, and the courage to seize new opportunities.
Youssuf recalls in vivid detail the day he received the call that would change his career. “It was 3:35 PM, and I was in Buterere,” he began, explaining that he had just finished his prayers during Ramadan. Out of the blue, Dei Djuma reached out to him, requesting he head immediately to Prince Louis Rwagasore Stadium, where Révérien Ndikuriyo wanted to see him in action.
Though excited, Youssuf quickly realized he had no money for transportation. Djuma encouraged him to take a Bajaj (motorcycle taxi) or a regular taxi, assuring him that he would be waiting for him at the stadium. “I grabbed my football gear and took a Bajaj to the stadium, feeling both nervous and thrilled by the unexpected opportunity,” Youssuf recounted.
Arriving at the stadium, he was met with a surprise: instead of a training session, a friendly match was already underway between Aigle Noir CS and Vital’o FC. At the time, Vital’o FC was one of Burundi’s most dominant teams, making the stakes even higher. “I was shocked, wondering how they’d evaluate me in a game against such a strong opponent.”
Despite his nerves, Youssuf received a confidence boost from his teammate Shassir Nahimana. “He told me not to be afraid and to believe in myself,” Youssuf said, adding that Nahimana reminded him this was his chance to prove himself. “He told me that if I performed well, I’d have a real shot at making it to the top division the following season. In that moment, I felt like I was in my own world, ready to give my best.”
Reflecting on his early days, Youssuf considers this experience one of his most memorable moments with Aigle Noir. Another standout memory came in 2019 when Aigle Noir CS won the Primus League championship, a triumph celebrated nationwide and attended by the country’s head of state.
Now playing on the international stage with Nice in France, Ndayishimiye Youssuf’s story is one of resilience, faith, and an unwavering drive to succeed. His journey serves as an inspiring reminder of how unexpected moments can open doors and shape a career in extraordinary ways.