Andreyna's leadership shines as Brazil aims for U17 World Cup final
At only 17 years old, Andreyna has already made a significant impact on the Brazil national team, demonstrating her maturity and leadership qualities. As a center-back, she has become a key figure under coach Rilany Silva, and this Wednesday, she faces a crucial challenge: leading Brazil to its first-ever final in the U-17 Women’s World Cup against Nigeria. Having previously won the South American championship in 2024 and 2026, Andreyna is no stranger to high-pressure situations, and her journey with the national team has transformed her into a more communicative and confident player.
Reflecting on her growth, Andreyna notes the stark contrast between her performance in last year’s World Cup and her current role. She participated in the previous tournament in Morocco, where Brazil achieved a historic fourth-place finish. “I’ve always wanted to lead and communicate, but I didn’t know how to express it. Now, being the oldest in the squad, I feel it’s my responsibility to show that side of me,” she explains.
Her maturity extends beyond the pitch. “I feel much more mature, both as a person and an athlete. I used to be very reserved, but I’ve learned to open up and connect with my teammates,” she shares. This newfound confidence has allowed her to embrace the responsibilities of leadership, which she believes involves sharing the load and building trust within the team. Initially, she felt pressure to be a role model, but through open communication with her teammates, she has alleviated that burden.
Andreyna’s voice has proven influential during critical moments in Brazil’s campaign. At the 2026 South American U-17 Championship, she took the initiative to speak to her teammates before the final match. “I believe it’s important to hear a player’s voice. It’s not just about the coaching staff; we need to listen to each other,” she asserts. This approach fosters a sense of unity and shared purpose among the players.
Andreyna's inspiring journey to success
Her journey in football has also been shaped by her family background. Born in Minas Gerais and raised in Bahia, Andreyna began playing football at a young age. After moving to São Paulo state, she faced numerous challenges, including commuting long distances for training. “I had to fend for myself, and some days I went without eating just to make it to practice,” she recalls. Her determination paid off when she joined Ferroviária in 2022, after impressing during trials.
When the Noise Dies Down
Football has become a means for Andreyna to support her family, who have sacrificed much for her career. “I want to help my family and ease their burdens. They’ve done so much for me, and it’s time for me to give back,” she reflects. As she prepares for the semifinal against Nigeria, Andreyna acknowledges the intensity of the upcoming match. “It’s going to be a battle. Both teams are eager to win, and we’ll approach it with determination,” she states confidently.
With her leadership and experience, Andreyna is poised to guide Brazil in their quest for a historic U17 World Cup final appearance. The stakes are high, but her growth as a player and leader suggests that she is ready to rise to the occasion.
