Neto Oliveira (centre) celebrates his assist with his teammates during the game against Perak. - Photo by Penang FC
PETALING JAYA: Penang’s new Brazilian playmaker Neto Oliveira did not get the winning start he wished for but his impressive display in their 2-1 loss to Perak in a friendly on Saturday left coach Akmal Rizal Rakhli hopeful that he can be a key player for the new season.
The 26-year-old Oliveira, who joined the Panthers from Brazilian club Trem DC, was the smallest player on the field at the City Stadium in Georgetown but he made a big impression with his silky skills and incisive passing.
The creative midfielder, who stands only 1.64m (5’3’) , also provided the assist for Rafael Vitor to pull a goal back for Penang in the 62nd minute after Perak had gone 2-0 up via Firdaus Saiyadi (34th) and Clayton Silva (83rd).
Penang coach Akmal Rizal Rakhli believes the nippy Oliveira, who is both comfortable operating as a winger or striker, will make a difference for the team.
“It was only his first game and this is also the first time he is playing outside of Brazil but he has shown his quality as a playmaker. Neto may need just another one or two more games to be at his best,” said Akmal .
“I’ve seen some of his matches in Brazil on video, and he looks like the kind of player who can fit into my team.
“He is the connector between midfield and attack. Against Perak, he provided a good assist which led to a goal, and that’s a good sign of better things to come.’’
