USA skipper gearing up for Huawei Intercontinental Beach Soccer Cup Dubai 2018

Sport360 staff 21:01 28/10/2018
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  • Having won the award for the Best Goal of the Year two years ago, USA captain Nick Perera has fond memories of his last experience of the Huawei Intercontinental Beach Soccer Cup in Dubai.

    With the Huawei Intercontinental Beach Soccer Cup Dubai 2018 just a few days away, many of the event’s protagonists have been sharing words ahead of one of beach soccer’s most impressive and elite events – including Perera.

    “Winning the Goal of the Year in 2016 was a very proud moment for me. I just saw the nominations for this year, and despite not being nominated I’m very excited to see who will win this year’s edition,” said the US skipper.

    Following a year out of the competition in 2017, this year will be the team’s fourth appearance at the Intercontinental Cup in Dubai, spanning a seven-year period.

    “This will be the third time I visit Dubai,” Perera added. “I have always enjoyed the beautiful location and the prestigious tournament. It’s a fantastic event and I’m looking forward to being part of the action once more.”

    The US have been drawn in Group B, together with two former Intercontinental Cup champions, Russia and Iran, as well as runners-up of the last two World Cups, Tahiti.

    Francis Farberoff’s men have some stiff competition in the group stages.

    USA captain Nick Perera.

    USA captain Nick Perera.

    “The last time the United States were invited to Dubai, we also faced off against Iran and Russia in group play, so there is an air of deja vu,” recalls the American skipper.

    But it’s clear the prospect of tough games represents an opportunity for this developing US side.

    “I’m very excited for my team, and personally, to face such fantastic sides in group play; it’s in matches against top teams like Iran and Russia where we can learn the most.

    “I’m confident in the mentality of our group that playing against the best in the world is a challenge we are ready for.”

    Last minute preparations are taking place across the globe leading up to the tournament, which takes place from November 6-10 at Dubai’s Kite Beach.

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