'I was holding back tears': The Irish League youngster flying flag for Portadown on international stage
Portadown youngster Oatnasio da Silva was just going about his normal day when the phone rang – a call which he will remember forever.
On the other end was one of Timor-Leste’s national team coaches informing him of his call-up for their ASEAN Championship qualification final clash against Brunei.
Da Silva had long dreamed about representing his country – a nation located in South-East Asia who currently sit 201st of 211 teams in FIFA’s world rankings.
The 20-year-old has only made six senior club appearances throughout his career, representing Loughgall in the Premiership before sealing a January switch to the Ports, where he has featured in NIFL’s Development League.
Da Silva’s international journey was unlike anything he had ever experienced, swapping sparsely-attended reserve matches for a first-leg fixture at Brunei’s Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium, which has a capacity of 28,000.
However, da Silva displayed maturity beyond his years, taking it all in his stride to mark a dream debut by scoring the decisive third as Timor-Leste secured a 3-0 away triumph.
Things got even better seven days later when the young midfielder found the net once again, taking his goal tally to two in as many outings.
Their 6-1 aggregate victory means Timor-Leste have progressed to next month’s ASEAN Championship, where Vietnam, Singapore, Indonesia and Cambodia await.
This whirlwind period has been unforgettable for da Silva, who was keen to share the experience with those who helped get him there.
"I was at the library when I got a call from one of the coaching staff that told me the news (of the call-up),” said da Silva. “I didn’t know whether to scream or stay quiet in that moment!
"I didn’t know how to act as I was really delighted at that time when I heard the news.
"It was also really emotional for me walking back home that day, I was holding back tears as it made me think to myself that all of the hard work is paying off and I was excited to tell my family and friends about it as they were also a big part of the journey.
"I want to thank God for everything...playing for your country and wearing that flag with your chest held high, it’s an incredible experience that you can’t really put into words.
"Growing up it’s something every young player dreams of, so to actually put on that shirt and represent your country is something I’m extremely proud of...being a part of that squad and creating memories with the group is something I’m also proud of.
"Scoring for your country is a dream, it’s a special feeling that words cannot express. To get two goals was amazing and something I’ll always remember and be proud of that I was able to contribute to the team’s success.
"Sharing those moments with my team-mates and family back home, there was a lot of excitement and pride which made it even more special.
"Going into the senior international team, there were a lot of nerves, which is normal, but I have to give credit to my team-mates and coaches – they were very friendly and supportive since day one when I joined the camp.
"That really helped me settle in and adapt as the nerves slowly disappeared, being In a space where I can be comfortable and be myself.
"Playing in bigger stadiums was a fantastic experience and something different than what I’m used to, but it’s an environment that every player wants to be in.”
Da Silva’s first taste of senior international football has left him hungry for more as he looks to use the experience to not only establish himself in Timor-Leste’s squad, but also make a mark on the club scene in Northern Ireland.
His impressive exploits may have been happening more than 7,000 miles away from Shamrock Park, but the Ports family kept a close eye on da Silva’s progress, providing updates on social media.
Already feeling a deep connection to Portadown, the club’s support has helped drive da Silva on as he aspires for more.
“Playing at that level and testing yourself against quality players has gave me confidence,” he added. “It shows you what you’re really capable of when you put the work in.
"I’m grateful for the experience and I’ll take a lot from it and hopefully bring that confidence back to my club football at Portadown and use it to keep improving in the upcoming season.
"My main focus is to keep working hard and developing as a player. I’d love to continue being involved with the international set-up and hopefully earn more opportunities in the future.
"At club level, I want to establish myself in senior football, keep improving and challenge myself at the highest level possible.
"Everyone at Portadown has been brilliant.
"The coaches and players have all been very supportive of me since joining and I’m really grateful to them for creating a professional environment where I have been challenged to continue my football development and feel safe to really just be myself.
"I have really enjoyed my football since joining Portadown, the training sessions have been very tough but really enjoyable, we have a great group of lads.
"It’s a great club to be part of and knowing that people are supporting and backing you gave me even more motivation to keep working hard and making them proud.
"If any young player is looking to develop their football ability and push to the next level, I would highly recommend the environment at Portadown.”