The U18 team stepped up their game this season and joined SIFL, the biggest international adult 11-a-side league in Shanghai. Even though the team was not officially on the table due to their addition into the league halfway, the U18 performed at an extremely high level and showed amazing potential. The first few matches were difficult due to the team having to adapt to more physical competition, but the Juve boys were quick to overcome this obstacle and continued to win match after match. Their latest feat of winning the SIFL Closing Tournament shows this progress perfectly, as the team won 6 and drew 1 match against different opponents.
What makes the team all the more impressive, however, is their age. The team’s average age is around 17 years old, with some of the team’s key players technically fitting under the U16 category. Despite this, the players are able to surpass their adult opponents in their conviction and confidence on the pitch. The U18 is full of talent which will surely continue to develop as the players gain even more experience on-field. Last Saturday, the team played against LFS U19, cruising through the game and winning 8-2. Being a step ahead of their peers is what propelled the team to join a tougher competition so that players could be challenged to improve.
Every player on this team is at the top level and contributes heavily to the team in their own way. The coach was very happy to see the individual improvements that all players made. Gui, as the regular goalkeeper of the team, had some great performances throughout the season and made some spectacular reflex saves. The most impressive aspect about him, however, is his ability to send the ball accurately from the back and build threatening attacking plays. Our other goalkeeper Sam joined the team halfway through the season and his shot-stopping skill makes him a truly reliable keeper. The team’s captain Julien has taken on a crucial role of leadership, to guide the team to working together cohesively. He is also a versatile player, strong both offensively and defensively. Amar and Amit are possibly one of the best defensive duos in the entire league, showing great ability to be physical on the pitch and anticipate the play. Tommaso is also a tough player defensively, characterized mostly by his willingness to make crucial, rough tackles. Jack was moved from the defense to a more central role this season, which showcased his leadership, incredible dribbling and passing skills, as well as his defensive control. Mert, despite being one of the youngest players, has shown incredible skill and development on the pitch. He took on a crucial role in the midfield and dominated opponents during matches, he is a player that our coaches are looking out for the next season. Eli continues to be one of the top players of the team, making improvements despite his already top-notch skills. Not only is he a huge attacking threat, his defensive game also makes him a formidable player. Fynn’s talent for cutting inside and curling the ball in the net is his most well-known characteristic. He is now one of the deadliest players in the entire league, scoring goals from all angles. Ross is a very athletic and physically strong player who has a great sense for both offensive and defensive positioning. Sam, along with Fynn, is one of the top scorers of the team. His strong ability to go 1-on-1 and clinical finishes makes him difficult to stop. Henry, despite joining the team only in the last few matches, has played a key role in the success of the team especially during the SIFL Closing Tournament. Tendai has improved in many aspects and is now able to play in many different attacking positions. His impressive work rate and physicality make him a strong player, especially full of potential for the future. Our coaches Babacar and Meison, along with a few other adult players, have occasionally joined the matches to guide the younger players in terms of experience.
The team is set out for great achievements, we believe that titles will be won for sure in the coming season. The elite level of these players gives the rest of the Academy a great Senior Team to look up to; amazing work from the U18 boys, Forza Juve!
