IVEN AT THE DOUBLE FOR TEAM NS CANADA GAMES SQUAD

CAPE BRETON FC talent Iven Gouthro continues to impress with Soccer Nova Scotia's Canada Games squad after hitting the target in both games in the challenge series against Newfoundland last weekend.

The 16-year-old prospect, who can operate in attacking midfield or as a main striker, scored in the 4-0 win on Friday in Halifax before adding another goal and two assists in the 5-1 triumph over The Rock on Sunday.

Iven's target now is to remain part of the CG squad over the Winter season when the program will field two teams in the Nova Scotia Soccer League (NSSL) Men's Senior division to help hone them for the tournament ahead next year.

The Canada Games will be held in St John's, Newfoundland, from August 8-25 in 2025 and Soccer Cape Breton and Cape Breton FC are 100 per cent behind Iven's push to make the final 18 under Head Coach Mesut Mert who also guides the Saint Mary's Huskies in Men's AUS action.

Regional Director of Soccer Development Iain King said: "Iven is a special talent who is maturing now in his efforts to learn both sides of the game, in and out of possession of the ball.

"Everyone in our Technical Staff was thrilled to see him shine in the games against Newfoundland, his progress is a great example for the younger players in the Boys Academy.

"One of our goals within the CBFC Academy is to produce more players who can earn places in the CBU CAPERS and other Varsity programs and Iven is certainly in that bracket.

"He has work to do in understanding the demands of an elite soccer player in games but he knows that and we will continue to give him every avenue to keep growing to make that final 18."

* Our picture shows Iven in action for Team Nova Scotia.