Now, with four appearances for Brazil inside the space of a month, including last night’s Man of the Match performance against Mexico, Jefferson is well on his way to challenging Júlio César for the number 1 shirt.
Jefferson was not supposed to play last night, but an injury to the recognised first-choice goalkeeper Júlio César gave the keeper another opportunity to impress and that is exactly what he did.
A first-half penalty save from Guardado and a second half stop from Mexican-hero Chicharito were the highlights, as the keeper formerly based in Turkey set about silencing the home crowd and eventually giving the opportunity for the attacking players to steal a late win.
“I am pleased and thank God, everything went well,” said the 28-year-old stopper. “I was calm during the game.”
On the penalty, Jefferson was quick to play-down his save.
“I waited until the last moment before diving and I went the right way, therefore I could save the shot.”
With more performances like last night, it won’t be long before Jefferson realises his dream of being a guaranteed starter for the national side.
