Flavio began his football venture from the age of 6 at Bedfordview Country Club. At the age of 8 he then moved to Edenvale Football Club. This is where he first showed his potential to develop into a great footballer. He then played at Belgravia Football Club for several years before being invited by Jomo Cosmos to play in the Nike Cup in 2009.

When Flavio was 15 he went for trials at Balfour FC to join the Forwardzone foreign passport team, known as the Forwardzone Elite Team. It was with the Elite Team that Flavio had the opportunity to travel aboard to the Netherlands during 2010 and 2011 to participate in several international tournaments. During his time with the Elite Team, he also went on a training period with Sparta Rotterdam, where he showed his true potential to play abroad. The Sparta Rotterdam coach stated that he had a very good technique and if an outsider was to watch him train they would think he was part of the team.

Flavio’s father Jose Bento also played football at a high level when he was younger. He went for trials at Benfica and was selected to join the team but because he missed home he chose to return to South Africa and go back at a later stage. When he returned he was loaned out to several clubs in Portugal and was unable to revive his career. He has taught Flavio the discipline, perseverance and dedication needed to be a top footballer through his mistakes.

A new beginning is awaiting Flavio in Portugal who has now been given the opportunity to play for the youth side of the Portuguese Premier League Football Team, Académica De Coimbra. Flavio had his first encounter with Académica de Coimbra during December 2010. The coach was very happy with his performance during his training period and he was asked to return during Preseason in July 2011 for a trial Period. It was during this trial period that Flavio’s hard work and perseverance paid off as he was asked to continue with the club. He played regularly in the preseason games and he is in the process of being registered with the Portuguese Football Federation so he can commence competitive league games.