"The Flash"⚡ who runs through ASEAN
João Pedro: The Flash 🇹🇱
From the streets of Baucau, Timor-Leste, many footballers have taken paths far from ordinary. Without the advantage of an established football development system, they have relied on sheer passion and perseverance to chase their dreams.
While other nations in the region have made rapid strides in football, Timor-Leste is building its foundation slowly but steadily. Despite being one of ASEAN's smallest nations, its national team has never stopped pursuing its dreams, competing with unwavering determination in hopes of one day standing tall on the international stage.
One of the brightest talents emerging from this relentless pursuit is a lightning-fast forward—the new hope and fan favorite of Timor-Leste. Today, Off The Bench introduces you to João Pedro, “The Flash.”
João Pedro’s Early Years
Like many professional footballers, João Pedro’s journey began with casual games in his hometown. As a child, he played football simply for fun, never imagining that it could become a career.
At that time, football was just a hobby for him. However, as he continued playing, his natural talent became evident. His journey took a significant turn when he was selected for Timor-Leste’s national youth teams, starting from the U-12 squad and progressing through the ranks until reaching the senior national team.
A Year in Portugal 🇵🇹
João Pedro’s life changed when he became the only player from his local club, SLB Laulara, to receive an opportunity to train in Portugal. It was around this time that he began to realize:
"Oh, so I’ve made it this far. Maybe I can pursue this professionally."
This realization fueled his determination. He understood that his football journey had already taken him further than he ever expected, and now, the dream of playing at a professional level seemed within reach.
João Pedro’s Experience in Thailand 🇹🇭
In late 2018, João Pedro played for Timor-Leste against Thailand at Rajamangala Stadium during the ASEAN Cup. Despite the team’s heavy defeat, his individual performance caught the attention of several Thai clubs.
Eventually, he agreed to join Ubon United in Thai League 2. However, due to Thai League regulations, Timor-Leste was not recognized under the ASEAN player quota, meaning he would be classified as a foreign player.
Since the club had already filled its foreign player slots, João Pedro was unable to register in time for the season.
Determined to keep him in Thailand, Ubon United arranged a loan move to North Bangkok University FC in Thai League 3. There, João Pedro quickly adapted, becoming a key player for the team and delivering impressive goal and assist tallies.
A Journeyman’s Path 🇹🇭🇲🇾🇲🇴🇮🇩
With every club change, João Pedro has had the opportunity to experience new cultures across different countries. His time playing in Thailand left a strong impression on him, particularly in terms of people's humility and respect.
"Maybe it’s the Thai culture, but people there are very respectful. For example, younger players always show respect to the older ones. That’s something I really liked."
And of course, no discussion about a new country would be complete without mentioning food. While every nation has its own signature dishes, João Pedro’s favorite turned out to be something surprisingly simple—instant noodles, Tom Yum Goong flavor!
After a successful season in Thailand, João Pedro moved to Malaysia’s UiTM United in the Malaysia Super League in 2021. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, he managed to play only two matches before returning home to Timor-Leste for a short stint.
The following year, he joined Benfica de Macau in Macau, where he helped the team secure a second-place finish in the league. His impressive performances continued, leading to a move to PSM Makassar, one of Indonesia’s biggest clubs.
However, breaking into the squad of the reigning 2022/23 Indonesian champions proved challenging. The team retained most of its title-winning players, limiting João Pedro’s playing time. Once again, he found himself on the move.
Current Club 🇰🇭
João Pedro’s latest destination is Cambodia, where he now plays for Angkor Tiger, a club with strong Japanese investment. As of February 2025, he has already scored four league goals and three cup goals, earning a reputation as a key player.
At Angkor Tiger, his teammates simply call him "JP"—a short and familiar take on his name, João Pedro.
The Rise of Timor-Leste Football
João Pedro serves as an inspiration for young Timorese players, proving that they, too, can succeed abroad. He is one of several Timorese players making a name for themselves overseas, alongside Gali Freitas (PSIS Semarang, Indonesia) and Jhon Frith (ISI Dangkor Senchey, Cambodia).
Their journeys motivate the next generation to push their limits and chase opportunities beyond their homeland.
The 2024 ASEAN Cup Experience
Timor-Leste endured a rough start in the 2024 ASEAN Cup, suffering a 0-10 defeat against Thailand. Reflecting on the game, João Pedro admitted:
"Our coach wanted us to play attacking football from the start. But we weren’t prepared for Thailand’s high-intensity pressing. We simply couldn’t handle the pressure."
However, the team quickly adapted. In the next match against Malaysia, João Pedro starred with one goal and one assist, nearly leading his team to an upset before losing 2-3. He played a pivotal role as captain, rallying his young teammates after the opening defeat.
Timor-Leste continued to improve, narrowly losing 1-2 to Cambodia, with João Pedro scoring his team’s only goal.
The Toughest Defender He Has Faced
When asked about the toughest defender he has ever faced, João Pedro immediately recalled a specific player from the Thailand national team:
"I remember the Thai defender—the bald guy. I don’t know his name, but I faced him in the AFF Cup. He was incredibly strong and difficult to get past."
That defender was Manuel Tom Bihr, a rock at the back for Thailand. Though João Pedro may not remember his name, he certainly remembers the challenge.
His Most Memorable Goal
Out of all his goals, João Pedro’s favorite was his stunning counterattack goal against Malaysia in the AFF Cup, where he sprinted from midfield and finished with precision to put Timor-Leste ahead 2-1. Though the team eventually lost 2-3, it was a goal that filled him with pride.
ASEAN Leagues
Having played in many leagues, Joao Pedro shared his thoughts on each league:
• Malaysia: A well-structured league with strong teams and excellent facilities.
• Indonesia: While not as large as Thailand or Malaysia, its passionate fan base creates an electric atmosphere.
• Thailand: The most competitive league in the region, featuring high-quality teams and players.
"Indonesia has the best stadium atmosphere in ASEAN. The fans are incredible!"
Future Goals
João Pedro, he aims to continue performing at his best, hoping for an extended contract or a move to another major ASEAN league.
At 26 years old, he is in his prime, fully focused on his career. His ultimate dream is to lead Timor-Leste to a major international tournament.
With his blistering speed, close ball control, and dynamic dribbling, defenders often struggle to stop him—except by bringing him down. But even when he falls, he gets back up and keeps running.
🇻🇳 In Vietnam, where Timor-Leste once used a neutral venue for home games, local fans dubbed him “The Running Machine.”
🇹🇱 Among his teammates, he’s simply known as “The Flash.”
But his real name? João Pedro.
Remember the name!
