Brazilian flair

Brazilian Rafael Oliveira netted twice in his first match - click to enlarge

Phnom Penh Crown have been taking a good look at Brazilian-born attacking midfielder Rafael Souza de Oliveira over the last few days and he made his presence felt with two goals in his first match against TriAsia yesterday afternoon. His first goal had a touch of Rio magic with a delightful overhead lob after spotting the goalkeeper off his goal-line. His second was a virtual tap-in. His test for Crown came after he spent a few days in Thailand, being well accustomed to Southeast Asian football following a three year stint in Vietnam with Navibank Saigon, The Cong and Than Quang Ninh. The 25-year old previously played in his own country, starting with Rio-based club Fluminense RJ as well as spells with Atletico MG and Democrata GV before heading over to Vietnam's top league. We shall soon know whether he has done enough to convince head coach Sam Schweingruber to add him to his foreign contingent. Crown are allowed 5 foreign players on their roster as they look to begin their C-League campaign next Saturday. Word on the grapevine is that Crown will announce more signings in the next few days.