Brazilian club Botafogo Futebol Clube has signed Australian teenager Nykodah Smith from NPL side South West Thunder FC.
The 17-year-old striker joins the club, which currently competes in the Campeonato Brasileiro Série C, after a three week trial earlier this year.
“It's definitely a journey of a lifetime. It's a new beginning and a new culture I'm going to, because in Brazil everything is passionate," Smith said.
“To think that a small boy from Bundaberg could be signed by a Brazilian professional club is unreal.
“It's like a dream come true. There's no words to explain how happy I am."
Former Socceroos coach Rale Rasic, has likened Smith to former Australian captain, Mark Viduka.
“This could be the new Mark Viduka, he has such a big presence on the field,” Rasic said.
“Special players can come from anywhere. I am a believer in small towns like Bundaberg and Toowoomba for finding talent.”
