Luanda – The provincial governor of Luanda, Manuel Homen, on Monday in the capital city recognised the contribution made by Pedro Manuel Torres, aka Mantorras, to national sport, especially in football, taking the country's name to the main fields of the continent and the world.
Manuel Homen was speaking at the homage act to the former football player of Progresso do Sambizanga and Sport Lisboa e Benfica as part of celebrations of the 448th anniversary of the City of Luanda, to be marked Thursday, in which Mantorras was distinguished as a Meritorious Citizen of this city.
''Given that Pedro Mantorras is a son of Luanda, who grew up and took his first steps in a team from our city, Progresso do Sambizanga, he needed recognition from the province, which dignifies the greatness of an honourable son who, even in the difficult moments of his life, was able to go through,'' he emphasized.
The governor, on the other hand, said that his achievements are examples of resilience, from a player who comes out of the community and rises to international competitions, which is inspiring for children and young people.
Meanwhile, the minister for Youth and Sport, Palmira Barbosa, who attended the event, highlighted the former player of Angola´s national team (Palancas Negras) as a young warrior who has managed to win, despite being far from his family and facing great challenges in the world of football.
She urged young people and teenagers to take up sport and continue to be resilient, like Man Torras, who is a source of inspiration.
Mantorras began playing for Progresso do Sambizanga (1999), Alverca football club (1999/2001) and Sport Lisboa e Benfica (2001/2011), the club with which he won the Portuguese League in the 2004 and 2005 as well as in 2009 and 2010 seasons.
He also won the Portuguese Cup (2004) and the European Super Cup in 2005.
The ceremony was attended by family, friends, former players, coaches and colleagues.
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