Fútbolita

Corinthians’ striker, Cristiane has confirmed that she will be following Marta’s footsteps and moving to the USA to pursue a new club career with the Chicago Red Stars in the WPS. Speaking at the FIFA Gala, Cristiane reiterated a point she made last year – the fact that female players in Brazil are forced to leave the country to find work and earn good salaries.

Women’s football in Brazil has long faced a problem with a lack of interest and investment, with majority of sponsors focusing their efforts towards the traditionally male-dominated aspect of the game.

“We’ve always hoped (for something better in Brazilian women’s football) but it is something that has become increasingly distant. We have 14 players who are playing in the United States and now our country does not have to worry about holding (back) these athletes, to help in any way. We’re playing, working and I think we have nothing more to prove to anyone. I’ve carried this hope for years and nothing happened,” said Cristiane.

Marta agreed with her teammate, and said : “As much as we try to develop the game, there’s a lot more work to do. We worked a lot, but there was a lack interest and support. The fans like it and you can place 70,000 people in the Maracanã but there is a lack of interest in the people who can do something to improve the game here.”