Portugal’s women’s national futsal team, preparing for the inaugural FIFA Women’s Futsal World Cup, has declared its ambition to win the gold medal, underscoring a confident approach to the historic tournament.
Player Carolina Pedreira, a winger for Spain’s Poio Pescamar, stated that while “dreaming is free,” the team possesses “all the quality and a very, very good team” capable of winning the World Cup. She emphasized their dedication to this goal.
The tournament, which begins November 21 in the Philippines, marks the first global championship for women’s futsal. Coach LuÃs Conceição’s squad is currently undergoing intense training, with Pedreira reporting “very good sensations” and a determined spirit.
Pedreira’s participation is particularly significant after she missed the qualification stage in Italy in March due to an injury. She recounted focusing on recovery to ensure her presence at the World Cup, expressing happiness to have achieved that goal.
Portugal’s immediate objective in Group C is to secure victories in all three matches against Tanzania, Japan, and New Zealand. The team’s overarching aim, however, extends beyond the group stage to securing a medal.
Pedreira credits her three seasons in the Spanish league with clubs like Marin, Burela, and Poio Pescamar for her development. She described the Spanish championship as “very fast, very intense,” contributing significantly to her personal and athletic growth.
The World Cup offers Portugal rare opportunities to compete against powerful South American teams, including Brazil and Argentina. Pedreira highlighted the strong motivation that comes from playing against the world’s top teams.