Perspolise rules Neymar Jr Five meet

MANILA, Philippines — Perspolise stunned fancied Tondo FC, 4-0, to rule the Neymar Jr’s Five Tournament at the Turf Bonifacio Global City and earn the right to represent the Philippines in the World Finals of the Brazilian star’s signature football tourney.

“It was a tough game, but everything worked out for us in the finals,” said Perspolise coach Mikee Carrion. “It’s a great honor for us to represent the country. We’re going to go there and have fun, but everybody has to watch out because we’re representing the Philippines.”

Next up for the team composed of Louis Serge Kaole, Otuyemi Emmanuel, Junior Stephen Ngong Sam, John Paul Canieso, Okoh Anthony Alechanu and team captain Hamed Hajimehdi, a member of the Iranian International Football side, is the World Finals at the Instituto Projeto Neymar, Jr. in Praria Grande, Brazil.

“It was good, we brought out our best players and we are excited to go to Brazil!” said Hajimehdi. 

Tondo was the sentimental favorite this year owing to its impressive campaign in 2017 in Brazil where it surprised everyone by reaching the finals in a losing-effort to Naxional in an intense and hotly contested battle.

“I think we were all rooting for Tondo FC, they would have made a great story,” said sports director Anton del Rosario. “But I’m happy for Perspolise. On the world finals, Perspolise won’t play like they’re on vacation. They’re going to play to win.”

Neymar Jr’s Five is the Brazilian forward’s signature football tournament, which brings together players from all corners of the world to celebrate their shared love for football in a fast, technical, and fun competition. Each match lasts for 10 minutes of play, there is no goalkeeper and the moment one team scores, the opposition loses a player.