Entering into its second year of existence, Palmeiras Women’s Team is beefing up the squad significantly, following last year’s ascension into the top division. In the last couple of weeks, the club has signed seven merited players, most of them with caps for Brazil. In a big and bold push – rather unexpected, in all fairness – Palmeiras seek to become a serious title contender in women’s football. Very exciting!
So who are these new arrivals?
Karen Xavier (Goalkeeper)
26 years old Kaká had a great 2019 season at Audax Osasco. Previously in her career, the experienced keeper has played for Corinthians, Foz Cataratas-PR, Athletic-MG and Atlético Nacional of Colombia. At 18, she was crowned Brazilian champion with Centro Olímpico. Karen revealed it’s a dream coming true for her, to play for Palmeiras.
Rosana dos Santos Augusto (Midfielder)
The oldest among the newcomers, 37-year-old) Rosana is an Olympic medalist, having played for the Brazilian national team during 18 years, side by side with legends like Marta, Cristiane and Formiga. Rosane is a very versatile player, comfortable playing as left-back or on the midfield. Rosana has played in major clubs in Brazil, US and France. In 2019 she played for Libertadores Cup finalists Ferroviária.
Angelina Constantino (Defensive Midfielder)
Born in New Jersey but of Brazilian descent, 19 years old Angelina has already bagged the Brazilian and São Paulo State championships, in addition to the South American Cup as captain of the Brazilian U20 National Team. For the last three years, Angelina played for Santos.
Ary Borges (Attacking Midfielder)
Yet another young athlete (20), Ary was one of São Paulo FC’s main players in the 2019 season. Apparently very identified with her former club and their supporters, her exit caused a bit of controversy. Ary is yet another newcomer having played for Brazil’s U20.
Ottilia Grassetti (Forward)
Ottilia (22 years-old) also played for São Paulo last season, winning the Second Division of the Brazilian Championship. She had good scoring numbers for her previous clubs and should prove important in the club’s quest to lift trophies in 2020.
Monica Bitencourt (Forward)
The 24-year-old played for Palmeiras last year, but left the club in the second semester. Now she’s back with a vengeance!
Stefany Krebs (Attacking Midfielder)
One of the most exciting signings. Stefany is 21 years old and won last year’s Futsal World Championship with Brazil, being selected “best young player of the competition”. On the big pitch she has played for EC Pelotas, and in 2017 was bronze medalist for Brazil in the Olympic Games for the deaf. That’s right. Stefany communicates thorough sign language.
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Palmeiras’ first challenge is a tough one, against the current São Paulo state champions and last year’s runners-up in the Brazilian Championship, our lifetime rivals Corinthians. The debut of the Big Green in the top division of the National League happens on 9 February.
Scoppia che la vittoria è nostra!
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by Augusto Anteghini Oazi & Kristian Bengtson
ANYTHING PALMEIRAS 