The Brazilian National Team eliminated France from the Paris 2024 Olympics with a 1-0 victory. To secure a spot in the semifinal, the ball needed to pass through the feet of Gabi Portilho, the scorer of the winning goal. The forward commented on Brazil’s match and the team’s journey so far.
“I can’t believe it yet. It’s very difficult to get this far. I scored the goal, and I was very happy. If it weren’t for my team supporting me, encouraging me, and Arthur’s trust in me, I wouldn’t be here living this moment; I wouldn’t be playing in the quarterfinals of the Olympics and qualifying Brazil for a semifinal,” she said.
READ MORE
++ Caio Bonfim credits mother for Olympic success: “I am an extension of her career”
++ Rebeca Andrade’s journey to becoming Brazil’s top Olympic gymnast
++ Paris 2024: Why is Marta not playing for Brazil against France in the Olympic Games?
“We played a great game. We faced the home team, and we had to break this taboo, as Brazil had never beaten France before. But together we are stronger; we are united, and we will continue this unity to achieve our goal,” she added.
The forward couldn’t hold back her emotions as she reflected on her journey to the Olympics. She emphasized that a great commitment from the team was necessary, and fortunately, they are still alive in the competition.
“I am extremely grateful to be here. A film runs through my mind of everything we’ve sacrificed, everything we go through, the pains we feel. But this is Brazil. I said we would only stop at the final, and we are aiming for that. I promised myself that this is an extremely unique championship and that I would give my best, that I would do everything as if it were my last game, my last championship,” she stated.
Looking ahead to the semifinal against Spain next Tuesday (6) at 4 PM (Brasília time) at the Marseille Stadium, Gabi Portilho emphasized that the support of the fans is crucial at this decisive moment.
“I hope they continue cheering, sending strength and positive energy. We need that support. We know it’s a very tough championship, but we will go all the way,” she concluded.
