Elo hails family support, relishes Seleção chance: “I’m very grateful” | OneFootball

Originally from Osasco, São Paulo, defender Elo started for the Brazil Women’s Under-17 National Team in their South American Championship opener. In an exclusive interview with CBF TV, the player spoke about the beginning of her journey in football and how she got to where she is today.

“I started out playing in the street with my friends and my dad. One day I was playing when a woman passed by and said I played well and that there would be a tryout at Centro Olímpico. I was 11 years old, I signed up, made it through, and stayed there until I was 13, when I moved to São Paulo.”

She said that her parents, Thiago and Yana Renata, have always believed in her potential and are her greatest source of strength. The defender revealed that her family is proud of her performances and that their support is essential. Elo also spoke about her parents’ reaction to her first call-up to the national team and could not hide her happiness when talking about what it feels like to wear the Canarinho jersey and represent her country.

Elo during the match between Brazil and Venezuela in the South American Women’s Under-17 ChampionshipCredits: Staff Images/CBF

“They were very happy, because they knew I had what it takes to be here,” she said.

“It’s amazing to be here, because wearing this jersey carries a lot of responsibility. Surely all the girls who aren’t here wish they were, so I feel very grateful, confident, and happy,” she added.

On Saturday night (25), Brazil defeated Venezuela 2-0 in their South American Championship debut. Elo, who was one of the standout players in defense, analyzed the match.

“We were nervous because it was the opener, but we adapted during the first half and managed to control the game,” she said.

Elo stood out in Brazil’s opening match in the South American Women’s Under-17 ChampionshipCredits: Staff Images/CBF

The Brazil Women’s Under-17 National Team returns to the field this Monday (27) at 8:00 p.m. Brasília time at Estádio Ameliano Villeta in Paraguay. The match, valid for the second round of the South American Championship group stage, will be broadcast live on SporTV.

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