Duda Sampaio hails Neo Química Arena know-how, marks 50th cap for Brazil | OneFootball

On the night of last Saturday (7), the Brazil Women’s National Team defeated the United States 2-1 at Neo Química Arena in a friendly match as part of preparations for the 2027 Women’s World Cup. The goals for Arthur Elias’ team were scored by Tainá Maranhão and Bia Zaneratto.

After the match, Duda Sampaio spoke in the mixed zone and commented on the condition of the Neo Química Arena pitch, a topic that was also addressed by members of the U.S. team after the game.

Photo: Will Anacleto

According to the midfielder, her previous familiarity with the stadium and the field, where she regularly plays for Corinthians, ended up being a positive factor for the Brazilian team during the match.

“I think it’s a positive point for us because we train here. We know what the Neo Química pitch is like. It’s a pitch where the ball moves very quickly, and it was quite wet. I think, as a result, I myself had a few slips out there because of the field. But overall, it’s a pitch where the ball rolls well, and I’m sure that makes the game flow much faster.”

In addition to playing in a stadium she knows very well, Duda also experienced a special night in the Brazil shirt. The player reached the mark of 50 appearances for Brazil and highlighted the importance of the moment in her football career.

The athlete expressed gratitude for reaching the milestone and said that each call-up now carries even more meaning in the final stretch of preparation for the 2027 World Cup.

“Without a doubt, it was very rewarding. I’ve said it before, it was a very special moment for me. That number represents a lot of what has been built in my career, and I’m very happy to have reached 50 matches here. I’m sure that now, not just the 50 matches, but every match has great importance from here on out. With the World Cup getting closer, we know it will mean even more, so I’m just thankful. And being here at Corinthians too, as I said, makes today’s game easier because I know the stadium, but also because of the structure that allows us to work hard and arrive here well prepared.”

Asked about the possibility of playing in a World Cup at home next year, the No. 5 answered briefly and showed confidence that she will continue to be part of the Brazil team’s plans.

“God willing!”

Brazil and the United States will face each other again next Tuesday (9) at 9:30 p.m. Brasília time, at Arena Castelão in Fortaleza, in the second friendly of this FIFA international window.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.