Brazil’s all-time leading scorer, Marta, returns to the Olympic stage for an unprecedented sixth time. Despite being absent from the recent CONCACAF W Gold Cup, the iconic player is prepared to make a powerful impact. Although some fans question her inclusion as she is 38 years old, Marta remains confident she has earned her place on the team.

In a recent interview preceding her Olympic campaign, Marta discussed her selection for the squad. “I was working towards this, naturally,” she stated. Addressing skepticism regarding her spot on the team, she added, “This was a result of the work I had been doing up to that point. It was not just because of my name. I earned it.”

Reflecting on her illustrious career and remarking on this milestone achievement, Marta expressed: “It is a relief because it is very difficult to reach an extremely high level and stay there for many years, and to have the chance to play at my sixth Olympics.” This tournament represents the forward’s ultimate opportunity to clinch an Olympic Gold Medal following last year’s announcement that she will retire this year’s end.

With over five previous Olympic appearances, the Orlando Pride star has secured two silver medals but has yet to achieve gold. The upcoming Paris Olympics present an opportunity for her to conclude her illustrious career on a triumphant note. Marta expressed confidence in this Brazilian squad’s potential to claim the ultimate victory.

“Winning is a matter of details, and I believe that this generation has what it takes to go all the way,” the Brazilian remarked. “We can see now that we have progressed in every sense. Technically, tactically, a much better structure.” As she pursues Olympic Gold, Marta is also preparing the next generation to carry forward her legacy.

Marta prepares for an emotional farewell to soccer

Bidding farewell to a sport, especially after dominating it like Marta, is never easy. As she sets her sights, firmly, on securing the gold at the upcoming Olympics, she can’t help but reflect nostalgically on her illustrious career, nearing its close. Recently, the Brazil icon remarked, “I contributed what I (was) supposed to give to the national team, you know?”

On discussing the next generation of players, she expressed confidence by saying, “I’m feeling so comfortable to leave. Because when I look around me, I see really, really good players, young players, who can keep doing the work and keep representing Brazil so well.”

For Marta and Brazil, the significance of succeeding at the Paris Olympics cannot be overstated. Watching them pursue their ambitious goal of securing gold amidst strong competition from teams like USWNT and Spain Women’s Team will be fascinating.

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