The championship match had come down to the very last kick, and Deng's foot sent the ball sailing wide of the goal.

His team had lost. As the final whistle blew, Deng sank to his knees, certain that his teammates would never forgive him.

But instead of angry glares, he felt hands helping him to his feet. "We win together, and we lose together," said his captain, throwing an arm around his shoulder. One by one, his teammates gathered round, patting his back and reminding him of the brilliant saves and passes he had made all season.

Then, wiping his eyes, Deng did something that surprised everyone. He walked straight over to the winning team and shook each of their hands, congratulating them on a game well played.

The crowd rose to applaud — not for the goal he had missed, but for the sportsmanship he had shown.

Deng realised that day that how you lose can reveal far more about your character than how you win.