Gradually, the feelings after the setback against the USA in the final of the women’s tournament at the Paris Games on Saturday (10) transformed, and even before arriving at the hotel, two hours after the match ended at Parc des Princes, all the players appeared smiling and proud of winning the silver medal.
As they got off the bus, the athletes were greeted by Aline Pellegrino, a medalist from Athens 2004. She hugged each one of them as well as the coaching staff members.
“You are Olympic medalists. Be proud of that. Thousands and thousands of athletes wished for a similar achievement. Congratulations!” Aline repeated, who was part of the generation of women’s soccer that first reached the Olympic podium in 2004 in Athens and is currently the Competitions Manager at CBF.
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At the hotel, there was a reserved area for the players’ family and friends, filled with music in a very relaxed atmosphere. Gabi Nunes spent time with her brother Roberto and sister-in-law Priscila. They came to Paris especially to see the final.
“We are very proud of this achievement by my sister and the Brazilian National Team. It’s an immense joy,” commented Roberto, who had been in France during the group stage alongside their mother, Edineide. They had to return to Brazil at that time due to work obligations.
Also relaxed, Yasmim, surrounded by relatives, spoke about how to value the achievement of the silver medal. “In Brazil, in some cities and states, no one pays attention to sports. Then, when a local athlete gains recognition through effort and dedication, a lot of people show up, set up a podium, and start the blah-blah-blah.”
She added, “I’m so happy with this medal around my neck. I don’t even have words. It’s an honor, a very special moment, and I will never forget this day.”
