Author: Barkha Roy
Renowned Brazilian striker Cristiane is making a long-awaited return to the national team. Coach Arthur Elias invited her for a period of training at the Granja Comary in Teresópolis, Rio de Janeiro, where she enthusiastically took part in her second training session. After almost two years away, Cristiane expressed her enormous excitement at representing her country once again.
She conveyed the unique feeling of returning to the team, saying that it felt like it was her first call-up. Cristiane’s last call-up, in April 2021, for a period of training at Granja Comary, adds a special significance to her current return. It represents a new beginning and the opportunity to create a consistent impact.
Coach Arthur Elias and the coaching staff have made it clear that age will not be a decisive factor in the team’s selection. Instead, they focus on daily performance and dedication on the pitch. This philosophy inspires confidence in the more experienced players, like Cristiane, who believe they can offer valuable support to the younger players and the emerging generation.
Cristiane has an illustrious history with the Brazilian national team, dating back to her first call-up in 2001. His impressive record includes 53 caps, 167 games played and a remarkable 116 goals scored. In the context of her participation in the World Cup, Cristiane’s figures are equally surprising. With 21 games and 1,563 minutes on the pitch, she is the third player with the most playing time for the Brazilian national team in World Cups, surpassed only by Formiga and Marta. She also holds the title of Brazil’s second top scorer in World Cups, with an impressive 11 goals.
Cristiane recognizes that her experience, along with fellow veteran Marta, brings a unique perspective to the team. His experienced presence helps to integrate the team and inspires confidence, thanks in part to the technical committee’s trust in his abilities. Despite her vast experience, Cristiane returns to the team with a different mindset, eager to learn and grow.
Her humility is evident, as she considers herself a student among her peers, emphasizing that her journey of self-improvement continues. Cristiane is determined to learn from the coaching staff and the younger players, contributing her vast experience to the team.
Coach Arthur Elias has brought new ideas and a sense of unity to the Brazilian team, creating an atmosphere of optimism. Cristiane is committed to doing her best and securing her place in the coach’s future squads.