Henrykinho: The Brazilian Maestro’s Pursuit of eFootball World Championship Glory

The global stage of competitive virtual football is set for an epic showdown. In a mere few weeks, on July 20th and 21st, Tokyo will host the highly anticipated eFootball Championship 2025 World Finals. Among the elite contenders, a name echoes with a blend of experience and ambition: Henrique Mesquita, better known to the eFootball world as Henrykinho. This seasoned Brazilian maestro is not just participating; he`s on a focused mission to claim the one title that has eluded his illustrious career: the world championship.

At 24 years old, hailing from Minas Gerais, Henrykinho arrives in Japan representing Italian giants Inter Milan, a testament to a qualification path as unique as his playstyle. His journey to this pinnacle event is a narrative of strategic adaptation, relentless pursuit, and the quiet confidence of a player who has consistently performed at the highest level.

Henrykinho celebrates his triumph in the Inter Milan qualifier, earning his spot at the eFootball World Championship 2025.

A Storied Career, A Singular Goal

Henrykinho`s résumé reads like a Hall of Fame entry for Brazilian eFootball. Four national championship titles, victories in the e-Brasileirão Open and Pro, and even a European runner-up finish with none other than FC Barcelona. He`s worn the virtual jerseys of Brazil`s biggest clubs—Cruzeiro, Flamengo, Atlético Paranaense, and his current team, Corinthians. Yet, despite this impressive collection of silverware, the eFootball World Championship remains the ultimate prize, the glittering apex of Konami`s competitive circuit that he now seeks to conquer.

The Road Less Traveled: Qualifying with Inter Milan

Unlike previous editions where direct regional qualifications were more common, the eFootball Championship 2025 introduced a fascinating new dimension: club partner selections. Henrykinho embraced this challenge, navigating a rigorous process that saw him compete for multiple European giants. He was a finalist in the AC Milan selection, finishing as runner-up, but it was with their fierce rivals, Inter Milan, that he truly found his tactical home.

This unique qualification method required players to master specific team rosters and managerial styles, forcing a deeper understanding of the game`s nuances. “It was very different,” Henrykinho explained. “Qualifying through a team event like Inter`s was a first for me. I also participated in the Milan event, finishing second. My dream was to visit Italy and experience the structures of both Milan and Inter, which was fantastic. The level there was incredibly high.”

“The style of Inter perfectly matches my playing style, which is to constantly press, constantly attack. In training, I already realized I much preferred playing with Inter than with Milan.”

His natural affinity for Inter`s aggressive, pressing play style provided the perfect platform for his success. It wasn`t just about raw skill; it was about synergy between player and virtual club, a dance of digital tactics that ultimately secured his ticket to Tokyo.

Global Gauntlet: Consistency and Experience

Henrykinho`s journey to the World Finals wasn`t a fluke; it was a demonstration of unwavering consistency. He reached the finals in four of the six Konami partner club selections, facing and overcoming formidable opponents from various continents. This intense international exposure in what he describes as “mini-world cups” has been invaluable.

“Playing for a team, I believe, is harder because first you go through an online test in the Americas qualifiers, which is already very difficult, but then you still have to play against Europeans, against Asians, in person. It`s a clash of playstyles… But I think it`s more important because you go into the World Championship with more experience.”

This crucible of diverse playing styles has equipped him with a unique breadth of knowledge, positioning him strategically ahead of rivals who might have taken a more conventional qualification route. He’s seen it all, and perhaps more importantly, he’s adapted to it all.

Beyond the Controller: Cultural Immersion and Culinary Quandaries

While the virtual pitches are his battlegrounds, the travels enabled by eFootball have offered Henrykinho experiences far beyond the game. This trip to Japan marks his first in-person World Championship since the pandemic, a milestone he cherishes deeply.

“I was talking to my father about this the other day, because thanks to football, I`ve visited countries I never thought I`d see… now there`s Japan. For me, I never get used to it, to be honest. I think it`s very special. I make the most of every trip, because you don`t know if it will be the last time.”

However, even a global esports superstar has his kryptonite: international cuisine. “I`m terrible with food, man. My God. The guys who were with me always found it funny because I wouldn`t eat anything. They`d try everything, and I`d live on fast food.” One can only imagine the culinary adventures, or lack thereof, awaiting him in the gastronomic wonderland of Tokyo. Perhaps a new tactical approach will be needed for the local ramen joints!

The Weight of the Jersey: Inspiring a Nation

The outpouring of support from the Brazilian community since his qualification is not lost on Henrykinho. He views it as both a privilege and a profound responsibility.

“It always feels like the first time. I think it`s really cool. I`m very happy too. People are happy for our achievement, right? We know it`s a huge responsibility.”

He understands that a world title extends far beyond personal glory, acting as a catalyst for the entire Brazilian eFootball ecosystem. Citing the impact of Rentão (2024 mobile world champion) and Gui Fera, Henrykinho aspires to pave the way for future generations. “A world title changes many things, opens doors… I want to have that pleasure of being world champion, and also help other people thanks to a title.”

Brazil United in Tokyo

Henrykinho will not be alone in carrying the hopes of a nation. He joins three other formidable Brazilians in Tokyo: Carlinhos (mobile), Juninho_eFootball (mobile), and João Victor (Console). This strong contingent promises a unified and determined Brazilian presence, ready to challenge for ultimate supremacy across both console and mobile categories.

As the eFootball Championship 2025 World Finals draw near, all eyes will be on Henrykinho. Can this experienced Brazilian maestro finally crown his career with the elusive world title, cementing his legacy and inspiring a new wave of esports talent back home? The journey has been long, the competition fierce, but Henrykinho`s pursuit of glory is unwavering. Tokyo awaits its next eFootball legend.