Despite being a young footballer, Bong Kalo has a lot to tell about his career in the sport. The 23-year-old midfielder felt the taste of European football three years ago when he had the opportunity to sign with a club from Europe.
Bong Kalo was Vanuatu’s captain in the 2017 FIFA U20 World Cup held in South Korea and he was very impressive in the tournament with dribbles, passes and goals. His country lost all three matches but Kalo wrote his name in football’s history by scoring three goals in the tournament – including a marvelous free kick goal against Germany. You can watch the goals by clicking here.
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His great level in the World Cup called the attention of lots of scouters and the Ni-Vanuatu midfielder was linked with many clubs from Europe, including German powerhouse Borussia Dortmund.
In August 2017, he arrived in Madrid for trials with Leganés, a football club that currently plays La Liga, the top-tier of Spanish football. During the trial period he was gifted with a pair of boots sponsored by Cristiano Ronaldo. Unfortunately he did not sign with the Pepineros but it was not the end of the dream.
Later in the month Kalo and Moise Poida – who was accompanying him in the trip – travelled to Switzerland and then the dream finally came true: Bong Kalo was a football player in Europe. He signed a one-year contract with FC Ascona from Swiss fifth tier.
Kalo’s stint in Switzerland was shorter than expected. He left the team after three months despite being one of the best players in the squad. He played eight official matches and scored one goal in the 2. Liga Interregional.
After his experience in Europe he went back to Vanuatu and played 2018 OFC Champions League for Nalkutan. Since then he has been playing for Oceanian clubs. He is currently attached to Galaxy FC from his homeland.
Oceania Football Center 