Weverton never thought Olympic dream was possible

Atlético Paranaense goalkeeper Weverton has expressed his surprise and joy at being called up for Brazil’s Olympic squad this month. The 29-year old was called as a last minute replacement for Palmeiras stopper Fernando Prass, who fractured his elbow in training on the eve of the tournament. Weverton will be the Seleção’s first choice for […]
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sambafoot_admin
2016-08-04 22:44:00

Atlético Paranaense goalkeeper Weverton has expressed his surprise and joy at being called up for Brazil’s Olympic squad this month. The 29-year old was called as a last minute replacement for Palmeiras stopper Fernando Prass, who fractured his elbow in training on the eve of the tournament.

Weverton will be the Seleção’s first choice for the games and one of the three permitted players over the age of 23 in Rogerio Michale’s squad. The Atlético-PR captain could barely contain his delight at the call.

“I was on a plane landing back in Curitiba when the phone rang,” he said. “It was the fulfilment of everything I have worked for. I was so happy. I sent message in the family group and said, ‘Prepare a feast because today we party.

“When I saw that Prass had been cut I had no idea I could be here because there was a list of 35 players,” Weverton told the press. “We know the importance that Prass had for the team, so we regret his absence, but everyone has to make their own history.”

However, Weverton has admitted that he will need to put the excitement to one side and ready himself for the tournament, with Brazil starting their campaign against South Africa tonight in Brasília.

“It is the realization of a great dream. Now, I have to get past the adrenaline and focus on working hard. It will be a tough task, with a lot of pressure. But for sure we will have a great Olympic campaign and go in search of this gold medal.”

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