After another thrashing by the Brazilian National Team over Jamaica, Marta, Jheniffer and Rafaelle celebrated the support of the fans at the Arena Fonte Nova, in Salvador, Bahia. The players participated in the 4-0 victory, which was the last test of coach Arthur Elias before the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
“God has blessed me once again. First our coach decided to put me in. I really wanted to get into this game and I came in to play in front of this crowd here in Bahia, in Salvador. It’s the first time the Women’s National Team has been here, so I couldn’t miss a goal. I’m very happy, very satisfied with the result as well and with the two games,” said Marta.
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The author of the last goal of the match, jersey number 10 also commented on the expectation for the call-up before the Olympics.
“Now it’s the moment to analyze what we were able to do in these two matches and, finally, to be in expectation for the Olympics. Arthur has a very qualified group, it’s not just the 26 who are here, but other girls who didn’t end up coming. So it’s just to root for it and if it has to be, it will be.”
Jheniffer scored twice and could not hold back her emotion after the game. The striker celebrated the two goals and stated that she dreams of playing in major competitions with the Amarelinha.
“We dream of the Olympics, we dream of the World Cup and even so young, we work for it. I can only thank God for the trust that Arthur has placed in me. I believe I’m not here for no reason, I’ve worked hard for this. It’s necessary to seize every opportunity that arises. Congratulations on this beautiful party that the Northeast made for us, I am very grateful.”
Finally, defender Rafaelle, a native of Cipó, Bahia, also spoke about the fans’ party. Jersey number 4 expressed happiness to play for the Brazilian National Team in her state for the first time.
“I just wanted to thank the crowd for this wonderful party. We take from this last game the energy of the Brazilian fans, here from Bahia, from the Northeast, which was beautiful. Two great games with a great crowd only show the strength of women’s football. We are building this for the 2027 World Cup. It’s this energy that we will take to the Olympics.”
Remembering Zagallo
Sambafoot Series launched a new documentary about the football legend Zagallo. Known as ‘Velho Lobo‘ and as superstitious as it gets, Zagallo helped shape what Brazilian football is nowadays — as a player and as a coach.
Watch the full series, available on Sambafoot’s Youtube channel.
