The official announcement that striker Nycole was out of the Women’s World Cup was a source of sadness for the Brazilian delegation. The player would not have time to recover from a sprained left ankle. Coach Pia Sundhage communicated the cut to the group at lunch this Tuesday (18) and the news caused a lot of commotion.
A veteran of the Brazilian National Team and close to playing in her second World Cup, defender Rafaelle tells what it was like to receive the news about Nycole’s absence from the national team.
“We were very sad because we know Nycole’s potential and how important she is to the group. The message that Pia leaves is of gratitude for waking up every day and giving thanks because we know how difficult it is to get where we are. It is very sad to see a companion who cannot live this dream,” she reveals.
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As one of the leaders of the national team and with the experience of having participated in the Pan American Games, the World Cup and the Olympics, Rafaelle supported Angelina, who was called up to replace Nycole. In the 2022 Copa América, the midfielder was a fundamental part of the title campaign.
However, in the final, she suffered cruciate ligament damage in her right knee and was sidelined for around nine months. Now recovered, she will compete in her first World Cup.
“Congratulations on the work that Angelina has been doing with us. She’s been here since the beginning, she’s already used to the time difference and will only be able to help us because of the work she does in the field. She’s a worthy one too,” she said.
Nycole is still part of the team, as guaranteed by Rafaelle. “We will carry Nycole with us from the premiere to the final in our thoughts. Let’s take her focus, strength and skill. We are sad that she is not physically there, but her strength will be in our hearts,” emphasizes Rafaelle.
