Elo hails family backing and savours Seleção chance: “I’m so grateful”

Elo hails family backing and savours Seleção chance: “I’m so grateful”

Born in Osasco, São Paulo, defender Elo started in Brazil’s opening match at the South American Women’s U-17 Championship. In an exclusive interview with CBF TV, the player spoke about the beginning of her journey in football and how she got to where she is today.

“I started out playing in the street with my friends and my dad. One day, while I was playing, a woman passed by and said I played well and that there would be a tryout at Centro Olímpico. I was 11, I signed up, made it through, and stayed there until I was 13, when I moved to São Paulo.”

She said that her parents, Tiago and Yana Renata, have always believed in her potential and are her greatest strength. The defender revealed that her family is proud of her performances and that their support is essential. Elo also spoke about her parents’ reaction to her first call-up to the national team and could not hide her happiness when talking about what it feels like to wear the Yellow Jersey and represent her country.

Elo during the match between Brazil and Venezuela at the South American Women’s U-17 ChampionshipCredits: Staff Images/CBF

“They were very happy because they knew I had what it takes to be here,” she said.

“It’s amazing to be here, because wearing this shirt carries a lot of responsibility. Surely all the girls who aren’t here would want to be, so I feel very grateful, confident, and happy,” she added.

On Saturday night (25), Brazil defeated Venezuela 2-0 in its opening match of the South American Championship. Elo, who was one of the standout players in defense, analyzed the match.

“We were nervous because it was the opening match, but we settled in during the first half and managed to control the game,” she said.