Minutes after calling up Brazil for the Women"s World Cup 2023, Pia Sundhage did not hide her preference for the national team"s goal. The coach"s response shows a confidence that is reflected in Letícia Izidoro.
In an interview with FIFA, Lelê, as she is affectionately called, proved that her security goes far beyond the four lines.
"I feel ready. I went through two World Cups. And as much as you"re on the bench, you want to be playing for the full experience."
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Letícia was in the Cup for the first time in 2015, after standing out in the U-20 World Cup. Four years later, she made up the cast formed by Vadão in France. In none of the competitions, however, did she enter the field.
"[The chance] comes at an opportune time. I"m in a growing phase, good. The most important thing I"ve always carried with me is that when that moment comes, I"m prepared. So, it was not something that took me by surprise, because I sought and worked a lot to live this moment."
Among her peers, Letícia has a mirror of the past and one of the future. Experienced, Bárbara was called up for her fifth World Cup. Newcomer, Camila is, today, what Lelê once was.
At the age of 28 and at the peak of her physical and technical form, the goalkeeper is one of the highlights of Corinthians, the current three-time Brazilian champion. Her agility and footwork make her a key part of Pia"s team, who wants to go far in the Cup — just like Letícia.
"I hope to have an excellent World Cup, close the goal, I"m working for that. And, God willing, put that little star on our chest and be world champion."
