Dana Cup - Powered by Players - Take 3
Our exciting new series: Powered by Players – a behind-the-scenes look at the incredible individuals who make the teams, who make the Dana Cup one of the most diverse and inspiring youth soccer tournaments in the world.
This series is all about hearing directly from the players themselves. They’ll share their stories, their experiences and what it means to be part of an event that celebrates equality, diversity, inclusion and empowerment.
From the first whistle to the final goal, these young talents bring passion, culture and dreams to the pitch – and together, they create something truly special.
Stay tuned as we dive into their stories – because at the Dana Cup, it’s the players who make the magic happen.
Take 3, São Paulo FC - Brazil
Today I am 40 years old but there is a part of me that is still 12.
In 1997 I had the opportunity to experience one of the most memorable moments of my life: taking part in the Dana Cup in Denmark with São Paulo FC from Brazil. It was my first international trip, my first time away from my parents and perhaps the first big moment in which I had to learn about responsibility, discipline and believing in myself.
At that time I was just a boy who loved football but without realizing it, I was learning much more than how to play. I was learning about the world, about living with others, about challenges and overcoming them.
I am sure this experience contributed greatly to the person I became. Today I still follow football, now as a supporter but life has taken me to other fields. I am an entrepreneur, building my dreams through hard work and especially alongside an amazing wife who is with me in every achievement and every challenge.
Together we are building our greatest victory: our family. We are the parents of Miguel who is 8 and Lara who is 6, they are my greatest pride.
Seeing the kids participating today, following football, awakens an enormous sense of nostalgia in me, a vivid memory of everything I felt back then. And in my heart, there is a very special wish: that my son can also live this experience one day. Because it wasn’t just a tournament. It was growth. It was maturity. It was an important step in my story.
I am deeply grateful to my parents, who made the effort so that I could take part in the Dana Cup. At the time, maybe I didn’t fully understand but today I know: it was a gift that helped shape who I am.
Time passes but true experiences stay with us forever. And some of them we dream of seeing our children live as well.
I played for São Paulo FC but today I am a Corinthians fan.
Photos: In the team photo, Pedro is front row, second from the left and below together with his family and he still has his Dana Cup medal.
Pedro Augusto Bueno
