Fernando Diniz backs Hugo Souza for Brazil World Cup call-up | OneFootball

Fernando Diniz has backed a Brazil World Cup call-up for Corinthians goalkeeper Hugo Souza after the 3-1 defeat to Botafogo. The comments followed the round 16 fixture in the Campeonato Brasileiro.

According to Meu Timao, the coach said at Estádio Nilton Santos that a call-up would be deserved given the keeper’s impact. He added that the squad are hoping Carlo Ancelotti includes him in Brazil’s final list.

Diniz said he had a brief word with Hugo and believes the possibility has delighted the club, who hope the player can realise his dream. He suggested the goalkeeper was perhaps Brazil’s standout last year and stressed his importance to Corinthians’ recent successes.

Hugo Souza joined Corinthians in July 2024 on loan from Flamengo and quickly became first choice. He was vital in the late-season surge and in knockout progress with key penalty saves, including against Grêmio in the Copa do Brasil and Red Bull Bragantino in the Copa Sudamericana.

In 2025 he helped secure the Paulista and the Copa do Brasil, then featured in the Supercopa triumph the following season. He has made 119 appearances for Corinthians, all as a starter, and in February became the club’s third-ranked goalkeeper for penalty saves with 14.

Source: Meu Timao