Toca Pro FC made an unforgettable impact at the inaugural Under-12 Norwich City Mina Cup in the UK, advancing to the Gold Cup semifinals and placing in the top four teams of the prestigious competition. As the Canadian representative, Toca Pro FC’s young athletes took on European football powerhouses and delivered one stunning performance after another.
Both Joao Dabrowa (center back) and Dorian Baczak (goalkeeper) made a significant impact in the tournament. Joao, commanding the defense, and Dorian, standing strong in goal, helped their team concede just one goal across two group stage matches. Joao, who was also a finalist in the Inter Miami Cup this summer, has built a solid reputation as a powerhouse and reliable center back, known for his composure and playmaking skills. He is regarded as one of the top center backs in the country.
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Facing off against powerhouse academy teams such as Chelsea, Liverpool, Borussia Dortmund, and host Norwich City FC, Toca Pro FC recorded a string of impressive victories. They beat Chelsea 1-0, Liverpool 1-0, Borussia Dortmund 2-0, and Norwich FC 1-0, securing the top spot in their Gold Division group and advancing to the semifinals. In a heart-pounding semifinal match, Toca Pro FC battled Leeds United, where the game came down to a nail-biting penalty shootout. Leeds eventually edged out Toca Pro FC, claiming their spot in the final and going on to win the championship against Feyenoord.
Although Toca Pro FC didn’t claim the trophy, their remarkable journey cemented them as a team to watch. As underdogs in the “group of death,” their passion, grit, and Canadian spirit carried them through the tournament, winning 7 out of 8 matches and conceding just one goal throughout the competition. One of the most unforgettable moments came when their goalkeeper, Dorian Baczak, scored an incredible drop-kick goal to secure a victory against Borussia Dortmund, earning him a finalist spot for the tournament’s Golden Glove award.
Head coach and owner of Toca Pro FC, David Velastegui, couldn’t be prouder of his team’s accomplishments:
“As the head coach and owner of Toca, I want to express how proud I am of these young Canadian athletes. This was a significant test to measure their abilities against some of the top academy teams in Europe. They not only demonstrated remarkable technical skills but also displayed the hunger and determination to compete at the highest level. I am truly excited about the future for these boys. Their success in dominating the Canadian soccer scene, and now with these results, proves that we are ready to take on the world.”
This tournament plays a crucial role in the development and scouting of Canadian players, as there was significant interest and many inquiries about these young talents. It also provides the kids with an important benchmark, helping them understand where they stand and what they need to improve on to compete and excel at the highest level when they return to Canada .
Looking ahead, the future is bright for this fearless squad. In 2025, they will continue their international journey, competing in South America and Spain, where they will undoubtedly be ready to challenge the world’s best once again.
Meanwhile, the Silver Cup final saw Inter Milan triumph over Chelsea in a thrilling match, capping off what was an incredible event.
Chris Brown, founder of the Mina Cup, expressed his excitement for the future of the tournament:
“We were delighted with the inaugural Mina Cup UK given the level of teams that took part from all over the world including a number of the biggest clubs in England and Europe and by the seamless organization and elite level facilities provided by our partners Norwich City FC,” said Chris Brown, Mina Cup founder.
The level of the tournament and exposure gained will help build the brand of the Mina Cup across the world with Dubai and the UAE as its birthplace.”
The MIna Cup
October 12/13, 2025
In partnership with Norwich City FC, the winning team will qualify for the Mina Cup 2025 in Dubai
Prepare for the newly launched Norwich City Mina Cup UK!
A gathering of 16 esteemed U12s teams from across the globe, converging upon the revered training ground of Norwich City FC.
The victors not only claim the inaugural Norwich City Mina Cup UK but also earn the distinguished honor of securing a complimentary berth at the Mina Cup in Dubai 2025.
Already confirmed in this unbelievable tournament are European giants such as Borussia Dortmund, Liverpool FC, Internazionale Milano and Arsenal! Keep tuned.
https://www.instagram.com/p/DBLwSSTze25/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
Toca Pro Fc
https://www.instagram.com/tocaprofc13/
Toca Pro FC is a Mississauga based youth soccer training academy for boys and girls.
64 Thomas Street
Mississauga
On L5M1Y7
David Velastegui, Coach + Owner
(289)-218-6833
