May 13, 2025 – Friendly Match: Portugal U15 vs Japan U15
Portugal’s U15 national team enjoyed a convincing 4–1 win over Japan U15 in an international friendly, with forward Rafael Cabral stealing the spotlight thanks to a sensational hat-trick. The match also marked a historic moment as Cristiano Ronaldo Jr., son of Portuguese legend Cristiano Ronaldo, made his first-ever appearance for a national team.
Match Summary
From the opening whistle, Portugal U15 looked sharp and purposeful. In the 20th minute, Rafael Cabral opened the scoring with a clinical finish. Just two minutes later, he doubled the lead with a swift second goal, showcasing his striker’s instinct.
After halftime, Cabral completed his hat-trick in style, converting a penalty in the 49th minute to make it 3–0. His movement, finishing, and confidence throughout the game underlined why he is one of the most exciting young prospects in the Portuguese setup.
A New Ronaldo Steps Onto the Pitch
In the 53rd minute, all eyes turned to the touchline as Cristiano Ronaldo Jr. entered the field, marking his debut at any national level for Portugal. Nicknamed “Mini Ronaldo” by fans, the young forward didn’t shy away from the occasion. In the 63rd minute, he attempted a bold “knock-and-run” dribble, though was ultimately dispossessed. Despite limited time, he offered a glimpse of the flair and drive reminiscent of his iconic father.
Sealing the Win
Portugal extended their lead further in the 72nd minute when Henrique Amén fired in a precise shot from a tight angle. Japan managed to grab a consolation goal in the 80th minute, pouncing on a rebound to make it 4–1.
Final Thoughts
While Cabral’s hat-trick was the headline performance, Cristiano Ronaldo Jr.’s debut adds a new layer of intrigue and excitement to Portugal’s youth program. The future looks bright as the next generation begins to make its mark…
