Timor Leste captain stars in US, eyes off Portugal

Alfredo Esteves, the football captain of Timor Leste, the troubled young South East Asian nation, played a leading role in USA club Minnesota Thunder’s 4-1 victory over Miami FC, a team which boasts Brazilian stars Romario and Zinho, the Asian Football Confederation reported. The Timorese defender is currently making waves in the USL first division with his solid defensive skills and proved invaluable to his team’s win over Miami.

"Today was an exciting day for me," said the Portuguese-Timorese (born in Lisbon, Portugal) player, who is under contract with MN Thunder for two more seasons. "Today’s result is important and I want to dedicate it to the people of Timor Leste,” said Esteves, who is likely to sign a contract with Portuguese I Liga outfit Desportivo das Aves. If and when the signing takes place, Esteves will become the first Timorese and South East Asian player to play in one of the major European leagues.