Striker Rafaelson Bezerra Fernandes of Nam Định Green Steel Club. Photo danviet.vn

Rafaelson Bezerra Fernandes is making an impact at Nam Định Green Steel Club with his energy, exceptional acceleration and accurate finishing. He is currently leading the scoring charts in the V.League 1 2023/24 season, with 16 goals.

The Brazilian-born striker has expressed his intentions to apply for Vietnamese citizenship and represent the national team. However, he will have to become eligible for naturalisation. Non-Vietnamese residents who wish to apply for nationality must have lived in Việt Nam for a minimum of five years. Fernandes has lived here for slightly over four. Cao Oanh speaks to the player about his passion for football and desire to don the national jersey.

Inner Sanctum: How did you get involved in football?

I was born in the city of Pirapemas, in a poverty-stricken neighbourhood surrounded by various social challenges. Football played a crucial role in helping me overcome these temptations.

Theft, prostitution, drugs, and gang violence were prevalent in the area where my family lived. Fortunately, football served as an escape from those influences. I played the game anywhere and anytime I could. In Pirapemas, and in Brazil as a whole, football is akin to a sacred religion, a dream shared by millions of underprivileged children like me. Football was the key to changing my life. Despite the immense difficulties, my parents did everything they could to support my journey to becoming a professional player.

During my initial trial at a football academy in my hometown, the only footwear I had was a pair of torn shoes that I found at a landfill. My parents could only afford to buy me one set of clothes, without shoes. However, the condition of my shoes didn't matter as long as I could dance with the ball. Now, I have the means to buy expensive new shoes, but the memory of those torn shoes remains with me. I believe that if a person forgets their past, it becomes challenging for them to succeed.

Inner Sanctum: During your time with the Vitoria youth team in Brazil, you faced allegations of age fraud but were later exonerated. Could you provide some details on that?

The accusation stated that I was born in 1994, which would have made me ineligible to participate in a U20 tournament at that time. Soon after, my father admitted that there had been an error in registering the birth certificate of my older brother, Antonio Ranielson Bezerra Fernandes. This error led to an incorrect birthdate on both my brother's and my own documents. Immediately after the accusation, my father provided the necessary documents to clarify the issue.

After being cleared of the allegations, I had the opportunity to make my debut for Vitoria's senior team under the guidance of coach Vagner Mancini. Subsequently, I was loaned to Vegalta Sendai Club in Japan in 2017, where I signed a one-year contract. Following that, I joined Naestved BK, a team competing in the Danish first division, where I scored five goals in 24 appearances. In January 2020, I returned to Asia and ventured into a tournament that was previously unfamiliar to me – the V.League 1. My first stop was Nam Định, and I subsequently played for SHB Đà Nẵng, Topenland Bình Định, before returning to my former team Nam Định for the 2023/24 season.

Inner Sanctum: You achieved certain successes in Europe, particularly in Denmark. Why did you choose to come to Việt Nam and join Nam Định?

I decided to join Nam Định because they presented a compelling offer, and I was also drawn to the favourable living environment that Việt Nam offers, which is reminiscent of Brazil.

Rafaelson Bezerra Fernandes is currently leading the race for the 'Top Scorer' title in the V.League 1 2023/24 season. Photo danviet.vn

Inner Sanctum: After nearly five years in V.League 1, how would you assess Vietnamese players? Who has impressed you most?

Vietnamese football has been progressing significantly year by year, which is positive. Among the Vietnamese players, midfielder Nguyễn Hoàng Đức of Viettel has impressed me the most. He possesses numerous qualities and exceptional vision on the field. Additionally, I have great admiration for Nguyễn Văn Quyết of Hà Nội FC.

Inner Sanctum: Is it easy to adapt to playing football in the V.League 1?

I feel extremely content playing football here. I believe that with each passing year, I am making substantial improvements, which brings me immense joy. My experience of playing in Japan for a year has aided in my quick adaptation to Vietnamese football.

Inner Sanctum: At Nam Định Club, who are you closest to? How do you feel about the fans here, and the culture in Nam Định?

I am closest to striker Hendrio Araujo Dasilva at Nam Định Club. We have known each other for a long time and have developed a strong bond. We work together very well on the field.

As for the fans in Nam Định, they have been incredible. Their support and passion for the team are truly inspiring. They create an electric atmosphere during matches, and their unwavering support motivates us to perform at our best. I appreciate their dedication and love for the club.

In terms of culture and cuisine, I have had the opportunity to explore the rich traditions and delicious food in Nam Định Province. Vietnamese culture is diverse and vibrant, and I have been fascinated by the customs and traditions I have encountered. The cuisine in Nam Định, and Việt Nam in general, is fantastic. I particularly enjoy dishes phở and bún chả.

Inner Sanctum: Nam Định are currently at the top of the league, and you have been a major contributor. Are you confident in Nam Định's chances of winning the championship?

I have great confidence in Nam Định's chances of winning the V.League 1 championship this season. We have a talented and dedicated team, and our performances so far have been excellent. The players and coaching staff are all focused on the goal of winning the league, and we are working hard to maintain our form and consistency. With the support of our passionate fans, I believe we have a great chance of success.

Inner Sanctum: You have expressed your desire to play for the Vietnamese national team if you successfully naturalise. How is the process going?

I still have a strong desire to play for the Vietnamese national team in the future. However, the naturalisation process takes time, and there are conditions that need to be met. At this time, I am still in the process of fulfilling those conditions. I am hopeful that in the future, everything will go smoothly, and I will have the opportunity to represent Việt Nam at an international level.

The happy family of striker Rafaelson Bezerra Fernandes. Photo courtesy of Fernandes

Inner Sanctum: What do you usually do in your spare time?

In my free time, I try to spend quality time with my family. They mean everything to me, and their support is invaluable. We enjoy doing various activities together and creating beautiful memories.

Additionally, I appreciate the local culture and cuisine, so I often explore different aspects of Vietnamese life and try new food. VNS