Matao head coach Gary White directs a training session as team newcomer Eddie Na listens during a training camp in Chinese Taipei Thursday. The team will play against the Chinese Taipei national team Saturday, ahead of its final match of Round 2 of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia and AFC Asian Cup UAE 2019 Joint Preliminary Qualification against Oman, scheduled for March 24. Courtesy Jill Espiritu

PARKLAND, WA— Pacific Lutheran soccer player Eddie Na (Curtis HS, University Place) who plays summer soccer with South Sound FC of the Evergreen Premier League took an amazing journey this week from Parkland to Guam, suiting up and playing 80 minutes for the Guam National Football Team. Eddie took us all along for the ride, shooting a video log of his experience.

“Guam narrowly lost 3-2 to Chinese Taipei Saturday in a match they dominated until a raft of second-half changes handed momentum to the hosts, according to a news release.

In front of almost 5,000 people at the Taipei Municipal Stadium, the home side took the lead in the 5th minute but Guam responded 29 minutes later as Justin Lee grabbed his maiden goal for the Matao.

In a move begun by debutant Eddie Na, Shane Malcolm’s effort fell to Lee who was on hand to prod past the home side’s goalkeeper and level the score.” —Pacific Daily News

Chris Dixon informs us of other Washington connections: “Fantastic opportunity for Eddie. Other Northwest connections on the Guam National team is #15 in the photo former 2010-11 Kitsap Puma and Sounders draft pick Tye Perdido. 2013 Puma Shane Malcolm had a goal and assist in that match. Former Sounders U23 keeper Doug Herrick also on the roster.”