Rafaelle Souza (Brazil player) training in Australia for the FIFA Women’s World Cup. Photo credit: Rafaelle Souza via Twitter.
The World Cup is not unfamiliar territory for Rafaelle Souza and the Brazilian Women’s national team. They have appeared in every tournament but only managed to reach the final once in 2007 where they were defeated by a tough German side. As underdogs in this year’s World Cup, Brazil hopes to shock the nation as they aim for glory.
Joining them in Group F are France, Jamaica, and Panama. Brazil will kick off their World Cup against debutants Panama on Monday 24th of July. They will go into the game as favourites however magical things can happen at a World Cup.
Manager Pia Sundhage named her 23-player squad that will compete in Australia and New Zealand this summer. With a career filled with success, she will be expecting her team to put pressure on the top teams in this tournament. A win over Germany in a friendly before they headed out to Australia definitely gave them a confidence boost.
Agora é pra valer! 🇧🇷
Saiu a lista das 2️⃣3️⃣ jogadoras que vão representar a #SeleçãoFeminina na @FIFAWWC!
Vamos juntas pela primeira estrela! ⭐️
🎨: Junior Souza / CBF pic.twitter.com/tudZljD2cX
— Seleção Feminina de Futebol (@SelecaoFeminina) June 27, 2023
One of the first names on the squad list without a doubt was captain Rafaelle Souza. The center-back has been a crucial part of both her national and domestic teams for many years. She is a solid defender who isn’t afraid to put her body on the line. Rafaelle has led her team to victory numerous times during her reign as captain. In 2022, they were crowned champions for the 8th time at the Copa America Femenina, and without their top goal scorer Marta. Despite this, the team stepped up and showed what they are capable of.
Brazil has shown how they can adapt in order to be prepared when faced with different opponents. After playing across many continents during her footballing career, Rafaelle isn’t fazed when confronted with a new challenge. Adaptability is key and she has shown that she can comfortably play as a back 4 or a back 3. Her fearlessness on the pitch doesn’t go unseen. Crunching tackles, powerful headers and precise passing are all qualities Rafaelle shows every game.
Rafaelle joined Arsenal in January 2022. After only 18 months, she made 22 appearances and helped them finish 3rd in the WSL as well as becoming Conti Cup champions. She also reached the Champions League semi-final which shocked most Arsenal fans due to the number of injuries that hit them this season. Coming to England following 5 years in China would appear to be a complete culture change. However, Rafaelle quickly settled into her new surroundings and became one of the gunners’ fan favourites. Her Arsenal CB partner Leah Williamson thought highly of the Brazilian. Although injuries stopped them from playing regularly together, the pair have become close friends. Since the announcement of her departure from Arsenal at the end of the 2022/23 season, Leah shared a heartfelt Instagram post expressing her feelings towards Rafaelle.
A major loss for Arsenal but a huge gain for Orlando Pride. Rafaelle is a player you wouldn’t want to come up against as a striker. Her defensive record is impressive, to say the least. Conceding no goals in the 2022 Copa America was a big statement from the Brazil Women’s team. Not only is she a vital defender but her ability to step into midfield causes huge problems for the opposition.
Her natural Brazilian flair started when she used to play barefoot against the boys back in her hometown. She made her debut in the senior Brazil Women’s national team in 2011 against Chile. Her first start came a few months later in March 2012 against Canada. Since then, Rafaelle has grown as a player and is a big part of Brazil’s success. With over 80 caps for her country, she will be looking to continue her positive journey down under and make the Brazilian nation proud.
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