Beto Goncalves: Defying Age, Carving a New Page in Liga 1’s Historic Stage

Beto Goncalves is a name that echoes powerfully among Indonesian football fans. The striker, hailing from Belem, Brazil, has carved out an impressive legacy across various Indonesian clubs. At 43, Beto’s hunger for football remains undiminished. As the next season looms, Beto is set to continue his journey with PSBS Biak following the end of his loan from Madura United. His contract extension with PSBS Biak is a testament to his enduring value and influence.

Beto’s adventure in Indonesia kicked off in 2007 when he joined Persipura Jayapura. In his debut season, he propelled Persipura to the 2007-2008 Indonesian Cup final, despite a narrow loss to Sriwijaya FC. Yet, Beto’s star continued to shine brightly as he emerged as the tournament’s top scorer. The following season, Beto, alongside Boaz Salossa, forged a lethal attacking partnership that led Persipura to the 2008-2009 Indonesian League title.

Beto’s career saw him don the jerseys of several Indonesian powerhouses, including Persijap Jepara, Arema FC, Persija Jakarta, Sriwijaya FC, and Persis Solo. In 2018, Beto officially became an Indonesian citizen, representing the national team and the U-23 squad at the 2018 Asian Games. Throughout his national team stint, Beto racked up 12 caps and 10 goals. His performance at the 2018 Asian Games was particularly electric, netting four goals and one assist, propelling the Garuda Muda to the round of 16.

A Resurgence with PSBS Biak

Beto Goncalves

In the 2023/2024 season, Beto was loaned from Madura United to PSBS Biak as Liga 2 was about to commence. At PSBS Biak, Beto was not only the main man but also a pivotal figure in the team’s success. Teaming up with Alexsandro Santos upfront, Beto delivered stellar performances, scoring five goals and providing four assists throughout the season.

PSBS Biak, making their debut in Liga 1 after clinching the 2023/2024 Liga 2 title, heavily relies on Beto’s experience and leadership. “We know Biak is new to Liga 1. So, we’re bringing some of our Liga 2 experience, and while it’s quite different, our spirit and experience can hopefully help the team perform at its best in Liga 1,” Beto said.

Beto and PSBS Biak reached the semifinals of Liga 2, clashing with Persiraja Banda Aceh. In the second leg of the semifinal, Beto scored twice, securing a 5-1 aggregate victory and a promotion to Liga 1. This triumph marked a historic milestone for PSBS Biak as the first team from Papua to earn promotion to Liga 1 since Persipura Jayapura.

However, Beto is fully aware of the tough challenges ahead in Liga 1. “Liga 1 is incredibly tough, but the players who stayed in Biak, who succeeded last season, and the new players coming in, might help us maximize our performance,” he added. Beto underscores the necessity of hard work from the entire team to hit their major goals in Liga 1.

The Ageless Power of Beto

Beto Goncalves

Despite being 43, Beto maintains his peak fitness with rigorous discipline. “I always sleep on time, eat nutritious food, and take vitamins to stay in top form on the field,” Beto revealed. His success stems not just from his physical condition but from his undying passion for football.

Beto is also known for his exceptional professionalism. According to his wife, Roesmalia Dewi, Beto always arrives early for training and strictly follows his sleep schedule and diet. “Beto is a family man,” Roesmalia shared. His dedication to his family and career is the driving force behind his longevity in the sport.

Beto hopes to keep playing and help PSBS Biak compete at the top of Liga 1. “In PSBS Biak’s first season in Liga 1, at the very least, we need to stay in Liga 1. But if possible, aiming for the top half is our main target,” Beto stated. However, he remains realistic and acknowledges that achieving this goal requires collective effort from the entire team.

PSBS Biak will be led by Argentine coach Juan Esnaider, introduced on May 14, 2024. Esnaider brings experience from managing notable clubs like Real Zaragoza B, Cordoba CF, and Getafe. Additionally, PSBS Biak has bolstered their squad with foreign talents like Julian Velazquez, a former top defender in the Bolivian League.

Beto Goncalves acknowledges that choosing to play for PSBS Biak was one of the best decisions of his career. Full support from the management and his teammates has reignited Beto’s passion and helped him overcome difficult times. “I’ve risen again and am excited to play football. I’ve postponed my retirement thoughts because I love football. Thank you to PSBS for helping me get back on track,” he said.

Beto is determined to continue delivering his best for PSBS Biak and contribute in every match. “I love Papua, and I want to stay at PSBS next season. I want to retire in Papua because I started my Indonesian career with Persipura. So, I want to begin and end my career in Papua,” he concluded.

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