Portadown's young midfielder, Da Silva, is making headlines after his impressive performances for Timor-Leste in the ASEAN Championship qualifiers. The 20-year-old, who joined Portadown from Loughgall earlier this year, has quickly transitioned from club football to the international stage. His journey began with a call-up from Timor-Leste's national team, leading to a remarkable debut where he scored the decisive goal in a 3-0 victory against Brunei. This achievement has not only showcased his talent but also brought pride to Portadown as he represents the club on a larger platform.

Da Silva's international experience has been a whirlwind, contrasting sharply with his previous matches in the NIFL's Development League. He expressed his emotions upon receiving the call-up, recalling the moment he learned of his selection while at the library. The excitement was palpable, and he described holding back tears of joy as he reflected on the hard work that led him to this point. Scoring twice in two matches has solidified his place in the squad and highlighted his potential as a rising star.

The young midfielder's contributions have been crucial for Timor-Leste, who have advanced to the next stage of the ASEAN Championship. With upcoming matches against strong teams like Vietnam and Singapore, Da Silva is eager to continue making an impact. He credits his teammates and coaches for their support, which helped him adapt to the pressures of international football. As he prepares for the challenges ahead, Da Silva remains focused on representing Portadown and his country with pride.