This Saturday (9), Brazil's Women's U-17 National Team steps onto the pitch for the South American Championship final against Argentina at 7:30 p.m. (Brasília time) at Defensores del Chaco Stadium in Asunción, Paraguay. Head coach Rilany Silva opened up about the team's journey and what fans can expect from this highly anticipated showdown.
"We approached this competition as six missions. This is our sixth mission," Silva explained. "Since day one, every day we have lived May 9, so this date has been in the making for 32 days, and that has really strengthened this group." The preparation has been intense, and the team is ready for the challenge.
Silva highlighted the contrasting styles of the two finalists. "They are two teams with very different styles of play. We play in a much more combination-based and collective way, while Argentina plays more through transitions, counterattacks, and relies heavily on the physical strength of its team," she noted. "I believe it will be a match between two different strengths, and maybe whoever moves the pieces on the board better at the crucial moment will have the advantage."
On the eve of the big match, Silva sat down for an exclusive interview with CBF TV, reflecting on her remarkable journey from player to coach. A former center-back, Silva enjoyed a decorated playing career, winning two Copa América titles with Brazil (2014 and 2018) and lifting trophies at clubs like Santos (Copa do Brasil, 2008), Ferroviária (Brazilian Championship, 2014), and Benfica (Portuguese Cup, 2019). She also finished as a UEFA Women's Champions League runner-up alongside Marta in 2014 with Tyresö.
Silva shared how the transition from the pitch to the touchline sparked her coaching ambition. Beyond leading Brazil's U-17 squad, she has coached youth teams at Benfica and Corinthians and served as assistant coach for Cruzeiro's senior women's team. Her experience and leadership are now shaping the next generation of Brazilian talent.
As the final approaches, all eyes are on this young squad to see if they can claim the South American crown. Whether you're cheering from the stands or sporting your favorite gear at home, this is a match no football fan will want to miss.