LAVAL — If Halifax set the standard, Quebec raised it on Day 1 of the Canadian Premier League’s #GotGame Open Trials.
The league’s coaches selected 58 players to move on to Day 2 — which will feature 11 vs. 11 games and a better opportunity to evaluate players who could received an invite to preseason camps.
There were, however, players who stood out more than others.
Here’s a list of five players who caught the eyes of CPL coaches on Day 1 in Quebec:
TRIALIST NO. 225
LUKUMBI TSHINDAYE, 19
POSITION: Midfielder
NATIONALITY: Canadian
CPL COACHES SAY: Tshindaye is the pick of the group, a midfielder who brings energy but understands how to play simple. He’s a good passer — a player who models his game after N’golo Kante. He’s a great engine in the middle of the park. Tshindaye moved to Canada from the Democratic Rep. of The Congo at nine years old. He was recently on trial in Germany.
TRIALIST NO. 362
MOHAMED KOUROUMA, 28
POSITION: Winger, Forward
NATIONALITY: Canadian
CPL COACHES SAY: In addition to having an eye for goal, Kourouma has good movement. He links well up front. You can tell he’s had experience playing at a different level as he previously played for FC Miami City before going on trial in France with Names Olympique. He was born in Guinea.
TRIALIST NO. 367
KODAI IIDA, 23
POSITION: Midfielder
NATIONALITY: Japanese
CPL COACHES SAY: Iida is technically good and his awareness takes him to another level. He sees the game well. As a midfielder, he recognizes the speed of the game and the rhythm. He’s just composed at all times and under control.
TRIALIST NO. 418
HAMDI DJAMA, 18
POSITION: Midfielder
NATIONALITY: Canadian
CPL COACHES SAY: Djama’s desire is off the charts. He also has good awareness as he sees the entire picture. He covers an immense amount of ground. He’s a lefty, a box-to-box central player who also defends.
TRIALIST NO. 440
RISEN MUYTIA, 17
POSITION: FORWARD
NATIONALITY: CANADIAN
CPL COACHES SAY: Muytia has unique raw athleticism. He’s physically strong but also has a nose for goal. He has raw potential — physicality mixed with technical qualities.