Arthur Elias calls up the women's team for the last friendlies of 2026

Coach Arthur Elias called up the Brazilian women's team for the last two friendlies of 2026, against Japan. The newcomer to the list of 26 athletes is striker Giseli Silva (Grêmio), a constant presence in the Brazilian Under-20 team. Another novelty is the return of midfielder Ary Borges (Angel City/USA), who recently became a mother, and attackers Adriana (Al-Qadsiah/Saudi Arabia) and Amanda Gutierres (Boston/USA). Among the main absences are Kerolin, who injured his foot last Sunday (8) in a Spanish Championship game, and midfielder Marta.

For the first time, the Brazilians will face the Asians at their opponents' home. The games are preparatory to next year's World Cup in Brazil. The first match will be on November 29th (a Sunday), in the city of Hiroshima, and then on December 5th (a Saturday), in Okayama.

Arthur Elias highlighted Japan's relevance on the international stage. The Asians have won seven of the last eight matches they have played.

"These will be two very important games for us, due to the historical background and the players that Japan has. The majority of the team plays in the English League, the main women's football league along with the American League. It is a team that has a very well executed execution capacity, a great synchronization with the ball, they are consistent and compact in marking. It is a team that will also challenge us a lot in duels to mark them, with the agility they play. I will try to give the players as many opportunities as possible, but thinking about to win, as it is very important for us to end this year well so that we can start next year even better", highlighted the coach, during a press conference at the CBF headquarters, in Rio de Janeiro.

The coach regretted Kerolin's injury, but said that the current situation opens up opportunities for other attackers.

"Of course, Kerolin is missed, like other players who didn't come due to injury. Now is not the time to define the team based on one player or another. We are looking for the best evaluations and the best clashes to define the players who will be at the World Cup. We regret her absence, but it will be important for the athletes who came in her place."

Arthur Elias also assured that Marta has a guaranteed place in Amarelinha at the 2027 World Cup.

"Marta is fully in the plans for preparation and to be in the World Cup. This will depend on how she will be at the time of the final list. We have plans for her, as well as for all the players that we see have a greater chance of being in the World Cup. Of course, we need to take care of her and contact the club so that we can be with Marta at a high level", said the coach.

Regarding the criteria adopted to form the team that will compete in the Women's World Cup from June 24th next year, Arthur Elias ruled out the age factor.

"I have several criteria when assembling the group, but this is not one of them. This will be natural: having younger and more experienced players. Especially because they are already leaving the youth categories, appearing in their clubs, and the important thing is to have players who cooperate for our environment, for the group. All of this is more important than their age", concluded Elias.

Summoned

Goalkeepers: Lorena (Kansas City), Natascha (Palmeiras), Lelê (Corinthians);

Defenders: Lauren (Atlético de Madrid), Isa Haas (América de México), Tarciane (Lyon), Mariza (Tigres), Tayla (São Paulo);

Sides: Isabela (PSG), Raisa Bahia (Palmeiras), Aline Gomes (Pachuca), Duda Sampaio (Corinthians);

Midfielders: Angelina (Orlando Pride), Kaylane (Flamengo), Yaya (PSG);