HARRISON, N.J. (June 27, 2023) – Gotham FC is proud to announce that defender Bruninha has been selected to represent the Brazilian Women's National Team in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup this summer.
"Bruninha's inclusion on Brazil’s roster for the World Cup is a testament to her exceptional skills, work ethic, and mentality,” said Gotham FC Head Coach Juan Carlos Amorós. “She has consistently impressed both defensively and on the attack, and she is more than deserving of the honor to represent her country. We wish her the best of luck.”
As Bruninha prepares for the biggest global competition of her career, she is certainly not new to the international stage. Earlier this year, the crafty defender showcased her skills in the 2023 SheBelieves Cup with Brazil, even providing an assist in the final match.
Prior to getting called up to the senior team, she played a pivotal role last year in Brazil’s impressive performance at the FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup, securing a third-place finish.
Additionally, Bruninha contributed to Brazil’s win at the Campeonato Sudamericano Femenino Sub-20, where the country showcased its dominance by not conceding a single goal throughout the tournament.
Joining Gotham FC in August 2022, Bruninha has started in all 11 games she has played this season, contributing two goals to the team's success. She has also received several accolades, including Bud Light NWSL Player of the Week (Week 9), Save of the Week (Week 10), and a spot in the Best XI of the Month Presented by Mastercard for May.
“Bruninha’s performance this season has been a game-changer for Gotham FC,” said Gotham FC General Manager Yael Averbuch West. “She has made a tremendous impact for us. We wish her the best of luck, and we are excited to see her shine in front of the world this summer.”
Prior to joining Gotham FC, Bruninha played for Santos FC in the Brazilian first division league Brasileirão Feminino Neoenergia. With Santos FC, Bruninha won the prestigious 2021 “Bola de Prata” (Silver Ball) as the “revelation of the tournament.”
Bruninha will join a group of her Gotham FC teammates at the World Cup this summer. Last week, midfielder Kristie Mewis, defender Kelley O’Hara, and forward Lynn Williams were named to the U.S. Women’s National Team. In addition, Gotham FC forward Ifeoma "Ify" Onumonu has been named to the Nigeria Women’s National Team, and midfielder Sinead Farrelly is on the provisional roster for Ireland.