Adelaide United prodigy Bernardo was thrilled to score his debut professional goal when his dramatic header secured a 1-1 draw against Wellington Phoenix last Saturday.
The 17-year-old arrived late at the back-post steer his header from Josh Cavallo’s cross home in the 92nd minute.
He was delighted to net his maiden goal and become the third youngest scorer in the Club’s history behind Mohamed Toure and Nestory Irankunda.
The diminutive attacker, son of Reds icon Cássio, also admitted he did not expect his first goal to arrive via a header.
“It was a good feeling to score my first senior goal,” Bernardo said, ahead of tonight’s clash against Melbourne City.
“It’s something that I’ve always dreamed of scoring a goal professionally.
“I saw the ball go in and I started celebrating.”
Bernardo has experienced a breakout season following his arrival in April last year from City.
He believed has progressed well under the guidance of Carl Veart and is hoping to continue to improve.
“I feel like I’m developing a lot thanks to the coaches and the staff for giving me opportunities here,” he said.
“I feel like I have developed my game a lot. Playing A-League isn’t easy it’s something that you’ve got to step up.
“And it feels good helping the team as much as I can.”
Tonight’s match will be Adelaide’s third meeting against the defending champions and the Brazilian-born starlet said his side are well prepared.
In both previous games United recorded 2-2 draws after fighting back from losing situations.
“It’s just another game for us,” he continued.
“We’ve prepared for this especially for tonight, we’re all physically well and feeling well.
“Obviously it’s my former club but it should be just another game, they’re a really good side and looking forward to it and we have to be on the front foot.”
Match details:
Tuesday, 15 February vs Melbourne City
Isuzu UTE A-League 2021/22 – Matchweek 15
Kick-off 7.25pm ACDT
Venue: AAMI Park
Stream: Paramount+
