World Cup winner Rivaldo backs Brazil: “I’m very confident”
· Yahoo Sports
One of the heroes of Brazil’s fifth World Cup title in 2002, Rivaldo predicted the Brazilian National Team’s performance at this year’s World Cup and said he is “very confident” about the tournament. He attended Tuesday’s (24) penultimate training session in Orlando before the clash against France, and praised Carlo Ancelotti’s work as well as the importance of the friendlies against the French side and Croatia.
“I’m very confident because of the coach’s work, he’s doing a good job. They are two friendly matches, but the World Cup is already close. There’s nothing better than putting in two good performances to give confidence to the fans, the players themselves, and the coaching staff. I believe they will be two good games,” he said in an interview with CBF TV.
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CBF president Samir Xaud and 2002 world champion Rivaldo at the Brazilian National Team’s training session in OrlandoCredits: Rafael Ribeiro/CBF
Invited by the general executive coordinator of the Men’s National Teams, Rodrigo Caetano, he followed the entire session, noticed a light atmosphere around the Seleção, and admitted he misses the days when he shone on the pitch.
“I was invited by Rodrigo Caetano, who is someone I know and have special affection for. He invited me to watch the training session. It brings back memories. I came to see the players and say hello to Ancelotti, who was my coach at Milan. It’s really nice, and the atmosphere around the Brazilian National Team is very pleasant,” he explained.
Rivaldo talks with Rodrigo Caetano at the Brazilian National Team’s training session in OrlandoCredits: Rafael Ribeiro/CBF
The No. 10 at the 2002 World Cup also commented on the value of bringing world champions closer to the players of the current generation.
“It’s always important. I’m happy that the president is bringing in players who were world champions. It’s important that the players now can be together with players who were world champions. That motivates them even more. We’re close to the World Cup, so it’s always good to bring positive thoughts and talk with the players who are going to play in this World Cup. It’s really great to be here, getting into the World Cup spirit,” he said.
For the Seleção, Rivaldo played 78 matches, scored 38 goals — which gives him an average of approximately one goal every two games — and was crowned champion not only of the 2002 World Cup, but also of the 1995 Umbro Cup, the 1997 Confederations Cup, and the 1999 Copa América. Also in 1999, he won the Ballon d’Or and was named FIFA World Player of the Year.
Raphinha, Rodrigo Caetano, and Rivaldo talk at the Brazilian National Team’s training session in OrlandoCredits: Rafael Ribeiro/CBF
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