Gabi Zanotti answers ex-team-mate’s criticism after Corinthians reach final | OneFootball

Gabi Zanotti, Corinthians captain, responded to former team-mate Gabi Portilho’s criticism after the 1-0 win over Gotham FC put the Brazilians into the final against Arsenal.

"I think problems exist everywhere, in any workplace. She was a bit unfortunate to raise that at such an important moment for Brazilian women’s football. In the heat of defeat she ended up saying some things, she may have her grievances, but this was not the ideal time," she told ESPN.

Portilho had said the victory masked issues inside the club, urged Corinthians to pay the players, and admitted she left in 2024 because she was no longer happy. Her comments, delivered moments after facing her former club, drew criticism from fans who felt the timing during an international competition was wrong.

Zanotti scored the decisive goal against Gotham to secure a place in Sunday’s final at 15:00, at the Emirates Stadium. "Arsenal are a great team, it will be very difficult, but we have quality too, as we showed in the semi-final. Nobody wins a game before it is played."

She also called for greater recognition of Brazilian women’s football. "We represent Corinthians, Brazil and South America, and we showed our strength. Teams from outside do not respect our national league, maybe now people will look at it with more respect and care."

Source: Meu Timao