Benjamin Jr: Following in his father’s footsteps

The Brazilian confirms at the Mundialito de Clubes that he is now more than just a young prospect

This past Mundialito de Clubes held in Vargem-Grande Paulista has left, as expected, some unforgettable beach soccer moments. 

Amazing goals, stunning moves, brilliant saves and a lot of beach soccer talent were all on display, with top class international players putting on a great show alongside new, up-and-coming talent.

One of those players to leave a strong impression on the sand was Flamengo’s number 11 – a certain Benjamin Junior, just 23 years old, son of the the Brazilian beach soccer legend Benjamin Pereira da Silva.

With six goals, he was not only the top scorer for Flamengo and one goal behind the tournament’s top scorer, Igor Rangel of Botafogo, but he was also the man all the Rubronegro players looked for when things got complicated, the man tasked with producing something extra special when things looked bleak.

Quick feet, a sweet touch and a great personality on the sand are all attributes that Benjamin possesses, with his skills both a delight to see for spectators and a nightmare for opposition defenders. 

Benjamin Junior made his first international appearance at the Copa Pilsener in El Salvador, back in 2014. At that time, having just turned 20 years old, his role within the Verdeamarela was very much a limited one as he sought to make the most of his potential.

More concerned about not disappointing the experienced players and the coach than shining and making a mark himself, Benjamin did not leave much of an impressive in San Salvador, although there was a sense that there was a magical player waiting to be born – a player who would eventually become a star.

A much more mature player now, Benjamin Junior’s talent is clear, and the maturity he showed at the Mundialito demonstrates that he is no longer a promise, but a reality.