Flamengo/Marinha debuted with a great result against Vitória in the Brazilian Women's Football Championship last Saturday (12), when they won 3-0 at Barradão, in Salvador. The match also marked the first match of right-back Raquel wearing the Mais Querido shirt.

The 30-year-old is versatile and usually plays on the wing, but can also play in midfield. With a nine-year career in women's soccer, Raquel has played for major national teams such as Santos, Kindermann, and, most recently, São José. Last season, she was a starter during the Brasileirão, when the team fell in the semifinals, and finished runner-up in the Copa do Brasil.

Regarding the win against Vitória, Raquel emphasized the importance of starting the championship well. "Winning your debut, even away from home, is always good; it gives us more confidence and a sense of accomplishment," she said.

Adapting to the new reality of Flamengo/Marinha was no problem for the full-back: "I adapted quickly to the team. I already knew most of the girls, so that helped me a lot, and everyone welcomed me very well. Regarding the Navy environment, living in the barracks is new to me, but during the course I learned a lot and had incredible experiences. I'm enjoying it and I'm very happy to be at a club like Flamengo, which is my favorite team and my father's too, in addition to being part of the Brazilian Navy." 

Expectations are high for 2017. "We want to reach every final and we're working hard to achieve that. The group is united and working hard to make that happen. I'm very confident," he concluded.

Flamengo/Marinha's next challenge is against Raquel's former club, São José. The teams face each other on Sunday (19), at 15 pm, at the Gávea stadium. Entry is free for Flamengo fans.

For the match, the full-back asked for support in the stands: "I hope the fans can come, support women's football even more, and that we can bring them joy. Playing at home and with fans is always something extra for us on the field."

*Under supervision of Isabela Abirached