Kenyan FIFA 23 champion Demon vows to bounce back from Paris setback

Eric "Demon" Ngige in action during the eLigue1tour esports.[Courtesy]

Reigning Kenyan FIFA23 esports champion Eric "Demon" Ngige has vowed to bounce back stronger after a disappointing outing in Paris, France at the eLigue1tour esports competition where he finished seventh.

The KCA University student's debut on European soil has started well as he beat Yagi from USA 4-2, before coming from two goals down to draw 2-2 against Chams of Morocco and again coming from 3-0 down to draw 3-3 against Iitmbs of Saudi Arabia in the first round of matches.

The results had him in second place with five points, behind Dexx jr of Senegal who had eight points.

His fortunes changed in the second round as he lost all his three fixtures, going down 3-0 to Senegal's Dexx j, then 3-1 to Dudu from Brazil.

In his decisive match against Romy of Ivory Coast where he only needed a draw to make it to the semis, the 22 year old suffered from a computer error goal after his on rushing goalkeeper missed the ball, leaving an empty net for the Ivorian to take a 2-1 lead with only 90 seconds left on the clock.

"I started well today but somewhere along the way I lost the steam. Being my first time at the global stage I believe I played well.

"I don't want to make excuses, I am focused on myself and improving on the things I can control.

"The computer error that cost me a chance in the top four couldn't have affected me if I had converted my chances. So I will work on my composure in front of the goal going forward," said Demon.

IndexG Esports C.E.O Ronny Lusigi congratulated Demon, while vowing to continue sending Kenyan gamers to international esports competition.

"We are happy to see the Kenyan flag at a global esports stage. Eric's performance was also great and the results don't tell the whole story.

"In all his matches he was able to go toe to toe with top ranked gamers of greater experience. We are now encouraged as an organization to continue sending Kenyan gamers to more and more international competitions as it is evident that the talent is there."

Demon took home EUR375 (Sh55,678) for his seventh place finish while Dexx jr from Senegal who was the overall winner bagged EUR3500 (519,668).

Demon is set to represent Kenya in Nigeria at the gamrX continental championship later on in June 16