The 15-year-old became the youngest footballer to play professionally in Portugal.
Rodrigo Mora made history yesterday when he came on as a late substitute for the final minutes of FC Porto B’s match against Tondela. His appearance made him the youngest ever player to appear in the Segunda Liga and the youngest to appear in professional football in Portugal.
At 15 years, 8 months and 10 days old, Mora broke the previous record held by Ricardinho, who last season made his debut for Mafra against Leixões aged 16 years, 1 month and 6 days old.
Mora, who has spent his short career so far playing as either an attacking midfielder or left winger, has garnered attention in Portugal for his superb performances at youth level. Last season, whilst playing for FC Porto U15, Mora demonstrated that he was clearly above that level, scoring 29 goals in 34 games. This season he has been playing with Porto’s U17 team where he has continued to excel. Despite making just seven starts, he has already scored nine goals and provided eight assists (16 total appearances).
The 15-year-old attacker has been touted as the player with the most promise in Porto’s academy setup – very high praise indeed. The youngster has also represented Portugal at a couple of youth levels. Mora played six games for Portugal U15, scoring four goals before making the jump up to Portugal U17, where he has made three substitute appearances.
Keep an eye on Mora as we could be witnessing the career beginnings of a very special player.
