Author: Soorya G
The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) officially announced on Wednesday afternoon that Bento, Atlético-PR’s skillful goalkeeper, has been removed from the Brazilian national team. A muscle injury in the posterior region of his right thigh has left him unavailable for the upcoming matches against Bolivia and Peru in the first round of World Cup qualifying.
Embracing the role with enthusiasm, Lucas Perri, a key presence in Botafogo’s first team in the Brazilian Championship, was handpicked by Fernando Diniz. Perri’s inclusion adds to the final list of players called up for the first round of World Cup qualifiers. The Carioca goalkeeper has a solid reputation, the result of his time in the youth ranks of the Brazilian national team.
Speak, my wall! 🎙️🧤
Called up to the Brazilian national team, Lucas Perri commented on the special moment in his career, praised the Albiceleste tradition in the position and the unity of the group. Check out Botafogo TV’s interview with our giant! 🔥⚽️ #VamosBOTAFOGO pic.twitter.com/9QpnrVy65M
– Botafogo F.R. (@Botafogo) September 1, 2023
Curiously, Weverton, a well-known figure in the Brazilian national team, having been called up for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, was not mentioned in this call-up. Likewise, Fábio, who was under Diniz’s guidance at Fluminense, has not been included in the squad for the qualifiers. In goal, as usual, is the undisputed duo of Alisson and Ederson, from Liverpool and Manchester City in the English Premier League, who retain their status as first-choice players, as they did under the previous coach, Tite.
Note that Raphinha was previously called up in place of the injured Vinicius
Coach Fernando Diniz’s debut promises to be a noteworthy occasion for the Seleção and is scheduled for September 8, when Brazil’s strength will be tested against Bolivia on the pitch of the Mangueirão Stadium, in the heart of Belém. Just four days later, the formidable clash against Peru will be played at the Estadio Nacional in Lima, the Peruvian capital.
Fernando Diniz’s tenure at the helm doesn’t seem to be a lasting deal, considering that the Seleção have an agreement with Carlo Ancelotti, who has reportedly agreed to take over the Brazilian national team after his contract with Real Madrid expires.