Paquetá scores on Brazil return after being cleared: “Meant to be” | OneFootball

Lucas Paquetá returned to the Brazilian National Team in great style. Scorer of the second goal in the 3-0 victory over Chile at Maracanã, the West Ham player valued the moment especially because he had been left out of the last call-ups due to his possible involvement in sports betting manipulation.

Cleared of the accusations in England, Paquetá was able to wear the National Team jersey again, precisely at Maracanã, in Rio de Janeiro, his home. There could not have been a better setting for this chapter of his career.

“I think it’s a unique feeling that I was able to experience today, it was written that I would return at Maraca, which is my home, to be able to score, to help the National Team again. I’m very happy after everything I’ve been through, what I’ve endured over the last two years. I hope to play my football freely and help the National Team,” Paquetá celebrated in an interview with SporTV.

Lucas Paquetá was accused of sports betting manipulation for allegedly forcing yellow cards to benefit specific bettors. After a long investigation, the player was tried and ended up being acquitted.

“I would say it’s a complete work of God in my life, He listened to me when I cried, when I was afraid, He supported me, transformed me. It was written, a complete work, back to the National Team at Maracanã with a goal,” Paquetá continued.

The midfielder had his first contact with coach Carlo Ancelotti this week and was one of the players tested by him in the second half of the match against Chile. Now he will have the mission of convincing the coach that he deserves a spot among those called up for the 2026 World Cup.

“I try to give my best, he’s a great Mister, it’s a privilege to work with him. I hope to give my best, that I can always help and be available for that,” he concluded.

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