Rayan backs Seleção's collective strength before cup knockout tie | OneFootball

Forward Rayan spoke about expectations for Brazil’s next World Cup match, against Japan next Monday (29), in the round of 32. In a press conference held this Friday (26) at The Ridge hotel in New Jersey, United States, the No. 26 highlighted the strength of the Brazilian team.

“In the group stage, we know we can fix our mistakes. But now it’s do or die. We know the Japan team has many quality players, but we have an incredible group of players. (...) It’s going to be a tough match, but we’ll give our best and work throughout the week to come away with the win,” said the 19-year-old.

“Our group is very strong, with quality players. If one comes off and another comes on, I think it’ll be the same. If I come off, Endrick will come on; if I come off, Neymar will come on. Day by day, Ancelotti picks the players who are in the best form at the moment, and I think it’s working out, so we’ll keep following the path we’re on because it’s been going really well,” he added.

Dream come true

The Brazil forward described the moment he is living as a dream come true, recalling his journey from the youth ranks to playing in his first World Cup at 19.

Rayan during a Brazil press conference in New JerseyCredits: Nelson Terme/CBF

He started in the 3-0 win over Scotland on Wednesday (24) and played a decisive role in the move that led to the first goal of the match: he dispossessed the opposing defender, and the ball fell to Vini Jr., who opened the scoring.

"I’m living a dream being here at the World Cup at 19 years old. I came on looking at the stadium, remembering the moments I’ve already been through. To be playing in a World Cup, for the first time as a starter, we know all the hardship we’ve gone through. It’s a huge source of pride to be here. To step onto the pitch there and be as natural as possible, and things will flow naturally,” he said.

Importance of the youth teams

Developed at Vasco da Gama, the player went through every level of Brazil’s youth national teams before reaching the senior squad. The current Bournemouth player, from England, began in 2021 with the Under-15 team, is now playing in his first World Cup, and highlighted the importance of Brazil’s youth teams in his career.

“We know how important the youth national teams are, and we are very proud to represent our country from an early age. They are very important for our growth as people and as players. It is a great source of pride to represent my country,” he said.

Rayan during a Brazil press conference in New JerseyCredits: Nelson Terme/CBF

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