Lelê shines with crucial saves to win the FIFA Series | OneFootball

With key saves, Lelê was decisive in helping the National Team win the FIFA SeriesCredits: Buda Mendes - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images

Goalkeeper Lelê shone on Saturday night (18) as Brazil won the FIFA Series, making key saves in the final against Canada. At the end of the match, Brazil was down to 10 players after midfielder Ary Borges was sent off and came under repeated pressure from the Canadians.

The opponents’ attacks were only kept out thanks to the Brazilian keeper, who was crucial in stopping Canadian shots in the 41st and 50th minutes of the second half and preserving the 1-0 scoreline — Aline Gomes scored the title-winning goal.

With the trophy secured, Lelê celebrated the title, revealed in an interview that she has had to deal with a “depressive episode” in recent times, and said she would remain available to protect the Brazilian National Team’s goal “for as long as my body holds up.”

Lelê during the Brazilian national anthem before the Brazil vs. Canada FIFA Series matchCredits: Lívia Villas Boas/CBF

“It’s very rewarding, I’m extremely happy. In addition to the injury, I went through a depressive episode that many people don’t know about. And being here, able to do what I love most, is impossible to explain. I’m very emotional. The only thing I think about is stepping onto the field and giving my best for the Brazilian National Team at every moment of my career, for as long as I can and my body holds up.”

A 2018 Copa América champion and called up for the 2023 World Cup, the 31-year-old player from Rio de Janeiro, one of the leaders of the squad selected by coach Arthur Elias, highlighted the importance of the fans to the success of the Canarinha as it looks ahead to the 2027 World Cup in Brazil — with the win over Canada, the National Team reached ten unbeaten matches played in Brazil.

“Being able to play at home, with our fans, already starting to get a taste of what the World Cup will be like and ending with the title (of the FIFA Series) is incredibly rewarding.”

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