PETALING JAYA: Penang’s new Brazilian striker Douglas Coutinho’s love affair with football began almost as soon as he could walk.
Raised by his late grandmother, who regularly took him to neighbourhood fields for kickabouts with the boys when he was a little kid, Coutinho grew up idolising creative Brazilian midfielder Philippe Coutinho.
He was also fascinated by stories about Santos great Coutinho, who played during the legendary Pele’s time.
“I already started playing football as soon as I could walk,” he recalled with a laugh.
“I love the game so much, there were times I spent the whole day in the street playing it. I was raised by my grandmother who always took me to the fields where I could play with the other kids and dream of becoming a professional player. Thanks to her, I’ve realised my dream.’’
On Sunday, that lifelong passion found its latest expression in a dream debut for Penang.
Coutinho marked his first appearance for the Panthers with the winning goal in a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Kuching City in the first leg of their Malaysia Cup round-of-16 tie at the City Stadium in George Town.
Coutinho, on loan from Indonesian club Borneo Samarinda, struck in the 39th minute with a glancing header from a superbly floated free-kick by fellow countryman Erick Brandon.
“I’m very happy to have scored my first goal in my first match. Every player dreams of shining with a goal and a victory on debut,” said Coutinho.
“I’m proud to have helped the team, especially after only being here a few days.”
Coutinho revealed that accepting Penang’s offer was an easy decision. And having a famous name was a big help too in attracting a team’s interest.
‘’Some people have asked if I’m related to the former Brazilian international Coutinho.
“I wish I were, but unfortunately, I’m not.
“When I heard about the possibility of playing for Penang, I researched the club, saw many good things and accepted immediately.
“The players welcomed me warmly from day one. This team are like a family, and that inspires me to play well.”
Coutinho’s winning goal extended Penang’s impressive run to four straight victories and clean sheets this year, giving them a slender edge ahead of the return leg at the State Stadium in Kuching on Jan 24.
