On Monday, Whitecaps FC announced Erfan Hosseini as the club's first ever eMLS player. Hosseini will represent the Blue and White at the inaugural eMLS Cup in Boston this coming April. Gabriel Ephard sat down with the 17-year-old gamer for whitecapsfc.com.
How does it feel to be the first gamer selected to represent Whitecaps FC?
It’s honestly a dream come true. As a kid growing up playing a game, you don’t expect to represent your hometown in a tournament as big as the eMLS Cup.
Did you become a fan of Whitecaps FC and MLS because of FIFA, or were you a fan before you started playing?
I was a fan before I started playing. It’s not often you get to support a local team that you love, and right away I was amazed at the club. I love the sport and the atmosphere of the stadium.
When did you realize playing eSports could be more than a hobby? Did you ever think you would represent a professional sports team?
I didn’t think I would ever be representing a professional sports team. It started out as just a hobby. I only started seeing the competitive side when they started showing the major events on television.
How many hours per week do you play FIFA?
I would say 20 to 25 hours per week, that’s how much you need to play to get ahead in the game. Most of my playing time comes on the weekend.
What’s been your most memorable FIFA match so far?
I think my most memorable FIFA moment was at a local tournament in Metrotown. I made a skill move in the final, I can’t remember the exact move, but I made my opponent tackle himself. I did it in front of a crowd, so it felt great.
What’s your favourite part about streaming?
Getting to interact with people, you get to do it live as well. It’s not like comments where you reply later on. When they comment on the stream, as soon as they say it, you get to respond right away. It feels great. It’s like you’re having a conversation with someone right in front of you.
What are some of your eSports goals?
I obviously want to win the eMLS Cup. I expect myself to win. I hope I can win it for the ‘Caps. It’s going to be tough, but I know my abilities. I know I can do it. I want to do this as my career. If that doesn’t work out, I want to go into computer sciences.
Do you still get nervous before any matches?
Yeah, I do get nervous. Before I stream or do anything competitive, I always have to warm-up against other good players. I don’t get nervous before tournaments. You’re so focused on the game. Instincts take over and then there is nothing to be nervous about.
Who is your favourite Whitecaps FC player right now?
It’s probably a tie between Kendall Waston and Alphonso Davies. Kendall is a beast, so is Alphonso.
Who’s your favourite player to play as on FIFA?
My favourite player right now is Neymar. He’s so agile and skillful, he really fits my playing style.
Who’s your favourite Whitecaps FC player to play as on FIFA?
Alphonso Davies. He’s fast, skillful, and has everything you need.
You played against two ‘Caps players in Alphonso Davies and Myer Bevan. Were they better than you thought or do they still have a lot to work on?
Myer was better than I thought. He gave me quite a challenge, but I managed to overcome him. I learned my lesson with Myer in the first match, so I never let Alphonso keep the ball.
What are some things you enjoy outside of gaming?
Hanging out with my friends, watching Netflix. That’s pretty much it.
For more information on eMLS, visit whitecapsfc.com/eMLS.
