Daniil started playing football in Canada under couches from Italy and France. So Daniil always wanted to experience and learn the European way of football in Europe because the level of training is very high. Daniil likes challenges, learning and new experiences and NF camp in February/March looked like a fantastic opportunity to help him develop as a person and a player. After the Camp, Daniil was invited to play the Ibercup with NF Academy, says mother Oxana Antonova.

I learned a lot during my training and the Ibercup. Especially with the goalkeeper coach Stefan Olimpio from Sporting CP.  He focused on the tiny details that I had never thought of doing. I am also very thankful to my team coach Ricardo Silva for all his support and guidance. I still remember his speech in the changing room before our game against Sporting during the camp.

I learned new ideas on starting attacks as a goalkeeper and communicating with the team and the concepts of attacking the ball on corner kicks and the important goalkeeper positions, tels Daniil.

I have never worked with Portuguese coaches before coming to NF Academy and I have found it especially interesting how they see the game. From how goalkeepers can be involved in attacks and the slightest details in the goal.  I also uncovered the important elements of making goal-creating chances and using the ball in your favour that can weaken your opponent. NF creates a unique atmosphere for learning and making new friends and connections. 

For example, going on walks with the team and staying in a hotel room with my teammates helped me make new friends from different countries.  And even now, we still talk to each other, says Daniil.

Daniil has enjoyed the NF Academy programs and thinks he can learn more. Daniil was invited to join the  NF High Performance elite training in July, tells mother Oxana Antonova in the end.