The U16 and U19 NMI Soccer National Team members pose for a photo in Cambodia.
“Despite not being able to play, it was good to be able to learn from the older boys and see other countries compete against us,” Goto said.
Also participating in the tournament were Brunei, Thailand, Cambodia, and Malaysia.
“I definitely learned from many of my teammates and coaches,” said Goto. “We had many training sessions before this tournament and our coaches would always encourage us to do our best.”
In Cambodia, Goto said he learned the importance of teamwork, soccer fundamentals, and discipline.
The NMI Soccer National Team members at the National Olympic Stadium of Cambodia. Photos provided by Kohtaro Goto
“It was an opportunity to grow,” he added.
“It was tough yet we experienced more than just soccer — we were also taught to make decisions under pressure.”
