Goalkeeper Meranda was in inspired form at the under-12 championships in Blanes in an event that featured teams from Santos, Corinthians, Japan and USA.

Ole Futsal finished top of their group, above Barcelona who they played in the first game of the competition, drawing 1-1. The teams met again in the final, which ended 2-2 before Meranda took centre stage to earn his team a 4-3 success on penalties.

Meranda’s selection followed a recommendation from Jonathan Kurrant of Pro Futsal, and it proved to be an inspired decision by the Woodford Academy team who are led by Alfie Brooks and Alex Freitas.

Reflecting on the win, Meranda said: “I feel like I am still waiting to wake up from a dream. I’d like to thank Alfie and Jon for having faith in me to play alongside this very talented group of boys.”