Miami, March 13, 2008 – Very exciting news coming out of Miami FC today as the club officially announced the signing of two playmakers, Cauê Santos da Mata (“Cauê”) and Leandro Bispo de Souza (“Mineiro”); both midfielders hailing from Brazil. The move is part of an effort to beef up offensive production under new head coach and World Cup Champion Zinho.
Cauê Santos da Mata, better known as “Cauê”, at the young age of 21 already brings with him a cache of international experience. He began his professional career when he signed a contract at the age of 16 to play with Brazilian club Vitória on their “B” squad. With Vitoria, Cauê won a number of international titles, including the 2001Nike Premier Cup, in Berlin, Germany, and the 2004 Philips Cup in Eindhoven, Holland. In 2007, he played for club Consadole Saporo in Japan’s J2-League. Sapporo won the title and was awarded promotion to the 1st division J-League.
“I just got to Miami and I love this city. Although I am a very quiet guy who loves to be at home, the fact that I played in Japan gave me some international experience and this will benefit the way I play here, for Miami FC,” Cauê was quoted as saying.
Head coach Zinho also reflected on the signing by stating that “Cauê comes backed up by some very good credentials from Brazil and Japan. He’s a player who likes to come from the back and attack, but is also strong as a marker. This is definitely another good addition to Miami FC.”
Leandro Bispo de Souza, or simply Leandro “Mineiro”, also brings with him an excellent résumé, including many local Miami FC connections. In 2003, he played alongside Zinho with the Brazilian club Nova Iguacu, and also spent time under former Miami FC head coach Chiquinho de Assis while with club Vitória. Mineiro has also played for Imperatriz/MA and also Flamengo and Botafogo, both from Rio de Janeiro, at the youth division levels.
“I want to contribute everything that I can to the team, and go ahead and win a championship while with Miami FC,” Mineiro said. Being the first time he will compete in the United States, expectations are very high but tempered with an understanding that competition in the U.S. may involve a more physical style of play.
“He’s a very strong player; the type of athlete that every single coach loves to have on his team. He is a player who can move the span of the field, and really be the workhorse that drives this team,” remarked head coach Zinho.
Miami FC will begin competition for the 2008 season on Saturday, April 12th, at Tropical Park Stadium against the Charleston Battery at 7:30 p.m. Season tickets are currently on sale by visiting
Miami FC - USL Professional Soccer or by calling 305-728-2612. Single game tickets are available by calling 1-866-57-MIAMI.