A TEENAGER from Tameside has returned home after making his international debut for Scotland’s national futsal team.
And 19-year-old Noah Lucas, from Mossley, marked the occasion with a goal on the world stage.
Noah travelled to Labin in Croatia recently to take part in the ‘Futsal Week’ international tournament, representing Scotland against higher-ranked opposition.
The event, held between January 22 and 25, served as preparation for Scotland’s upcoming FIFA World Futsal Cup pre-qualifiers in Denmark this April.
Scotland, currently ranked 128th in the world, faced a daunting fixture list against Morocco (6th), Switzerland (120th) and Malta (113th).
Although the young Scottish side were defeated in all three matches, the tournament was seen as valuable experience for the players.
Reflecting on the trip, Noah said: “This week was a great learning experience as I made my international debut against Morocco. Our team has some 17, 18 and 19-year-olds and this was about gaining crucial experience moving forward.”
Despite the tough results, the teenager still found a moment to remember, scoring late in the final match against Malta.
Closer to home, Noah plays National League futsal for Sala Futsal Club, who are currently pushing for promotion this season.
The club also runs weekly training sessions in Tameside and Gorton for boys and girls aged six to 16, offering opportunities to compete in local leagues and tournaments from under-10s upwards.
Futsal – FIFA’s official small-sided indoor format of football – is played five-a-side on a basketball-sized court and is widely regarded as a technical development pathway for young footballers due to its fast pace and emphasis on close control.