Player Profile: Alexis Cabral, Portugal 2009

Posted on 12/09/2009

Alexis, 17, is a quiet and shy boy from a slum near the river in the south of Lisbon. He mentions that it's tough is to live in the slum because there is a lot of drug dealing, violence and constant fights with the police. Discovered by a local institution that works in the neighborhood, Alexis was quickly encouraged to participate in the local tournament.

To the player the Homeless World Cup experience that has opened the doors for him. He believes it gives the players the chance to support each other and share the love for football. The portuguese player has been named occassional times man of the match during the Homeless World Cup in Milan. His coach Carlos Codinha, describes him as a very strong player phisically and mentally. "Alexis is the connection on the field between the players. Even though he has been recovering from an injury, he still manages to give an excellent performance every time he plays". His team-mates are very proud of him and the big effort his making. Alexis has made friends from Brazil, Malawi, South Africa and Cambodia that go and support him to every match. To him is a huge honor to represent his country and he is looking forward to get a lot of professional offers when he goes back to Portugal. Alexis is currently finishing the 6th grade but when he is done with it, he's sure you will hear more from him in a near future.

Cynthia Guzman Tamares