FC Porto takes Dragon Force to Cape Verde and invests in training young talent

FCF Porto is expanding its international training network with the launch of the Dragon Force brand in Cape Verde. After projects in Brazil, Zimbabwe, Turkey, Mexico (Monterrey) and Cyprus, the dragons are now moving on to Praia, on the island of Santiago, where a Dragon Force by FC Porto school will be set up, in partnership with EFAT (Achada Grande Trás Football School).

The initiative aims to identify, train and develop young Cape Verdean talent, while at the same time qualifying local coaches according to FC Porto's training methodology. Founded in 2012, EFAT stands out for its strong community mission, promoting the sporting and human development of children and young people and using soccer as a tool to combat social exclusion.

The initiative aims to identify, train and develop young Cape Verdean talent, while also qualifying local coaches according to FC Porto's training methodology.

"Cape Verde was an old desire that was never forgotten," said Ricardo Frey Ramos, Dragon Force's executive director, stressing that EFAT, closely monitored by the club since 2016, is "the right partner" for this step. In an initial phase, the focus will be on the sports and educational training of local staff, with the aim of "maximizing the talent and passion that each child lives with the ball at their feet over the years."

Rolando, a former central defender for the Dragons and currently involved in the club's youth soccer, also highlighted the impact of the project: "Cape Verde has a huge natural talent and a very strong passion for soccer. This project allows us to create a solid training base, with quality methodology, values and guidance from an early age. It's a unique opportunity for young people and local coaches to grow in a sustainable way, linked to a club with the size and demand of FC Porto."

With this initiative, FC Porto is reinforcing its commitment to international training, consolidating its presence in Africa and investing in long-term development, local training and the discovery of future soccer talent.