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Lahoud Set to Join Sierra Leone for Africa Cup of Nations

June 5, 2017 - North American Soccer League (NASL)
Miami FC News Release


Called Up: Lahoud Set to Join Sierra Leone for Africa Cup of Nations

It's every soccer player's dream, from a young age to the last time they step on a pitch: getting called up to their national team and representing their country. 

For many talented players, the chance never comes. For the ones that are lucky enough to earn the distinction, their main focus is usually on the task at hand, but deep down they know of the meaning behind their national team jersey. 

This won't be the first time or the last time that this occurs, but Miami FC midfielder Michael Lahoud has been called up to represent Sierra Leone in their upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Kenya. Lahoud had been selected to the national team previously, but this will be his first stint since 2014, back when he played his club matches with the Philadelphia Union. 

When asked about his first reaction to the enlightening news, the 30-year-old veteran mentioned that the recent call-up came as a bit of a shock.

"It was a mixture of a lot of things, it was definitely surprise. Playing for the national team is an incredible joy, an amazing adventure for me. After a few years, I started to think it was over, that it was a great run that came to an end. So to have that chapter re-opened later on in my career is a definite surprise."

Lahoud can thank the pleasant surprise to his improvement on the field and maturation off of it. Lahoud has been a catalyst in the midfield, and occasionally at right back, for the Miami FC since its inception in 2016. This year, Lahoud has been one of first place Miami's best players, notching two assists and ranking in the top 10 in the NASL in total passes. 

Coming to the Miami FC with the hope to "leave a legacy here," Lahoud's game has been upped to a new level since bringing his talent and work ethic to South Florida. While he's brought plenty to the club, the club and its coaches and players have reciprocated. 

"I think this year, they're (the coaches) always demanding more of me, whether on the field or off the field in the locker room. Leadership-wise that's been a new role, and I've always embraced leadership roles, always behind the scenes, especially with the younger players. But they've really asked me to step out of the shadows and make people feel the weight of who I am and I'm starting to get a feel of what that even means. It's been an incredible start to the year for me personally, and for our team more importantly. This opportunity to represent my country is a huge representation of that."

Aside from the guidance role he can occupy, Lahoud believes that he can bring a new dimension to the team after a brief hiatus. 

"... The one thing that I think I bring to the table is discipline and flexibility. The African game is so much so of dribble first, invent second, score third or shoot from midfield fourth. Playing under so many different coaches from all around the world; that is one of the benefits of playing here in the states, is there's a lot more focus on tactics and doing your role. I'm looking forward to whatever role the coach has for me to play, and my goal is to have it be a prominent one."

On the back of playing the best soccer of his career, Lahoud should play an important part for Sierra Leone against Kenya and in the near future. His skill, determination and drive have allowed for him to reach the pinnacle of world soccer. Now it's his turn to shine bright like he has for his club on the international stage. 

About Miami FC

The Miami FC is Miami's only professional soccer team and began playing in the North American Soccer League (NASL) in 2016. Co-owned by international entrepreneur Riccardo Silva and world-renowned soccer superstar Paolo Maldini, the club will compete in the U.S. Open Cup and host international tournaments and friendly matches.

In partnership with The Miami Foundation and the Play for Change Foundation, Miami FC's mission is to connect with Miami's communities through the global language of soccer, strengthening their ties by promoting social-driven initiatives and charitable work through soccer.

     

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