Defender Rafaelle was honored on Saturday (3) for her historic milestone with the national team. The athlete is set to complete 100 games for the national team this evening in Nantes, France, as Brazil won against France for a spot in the Olympic semifinal.
A starter for the Orlando Pride in the United States, the defender was born in Cipó, a city in the interior of Bahia.
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The 33-year-old defender is one of the most experienced players available to coach Arthur Elias in France. This is her third Olympic appearance. Rafaelle was first called up to the senior national team in 2011. With the team, she has won important titles, including the 2015 Pan American Games in Canada and the Copa América in 2018 and 2022. With great technique and excellent game vision, Rafaelle has already earned her place among the best defenders in Brazilian football.
“I am very happy to represent my country in 100 games. This honor will give me even more strength to fight for this spot. You can count on me. I will only leave there being dragged,” said the player, who was applauded by all her teammates and coaching staff.