Thiago Silva is deeply impressed by what Antony is showing for the Brazil national team. The 21-year-old winger of Ajax is with the for the first time seleco and graced his debut last week with a goal against Venezuela. Leeds United winger Raphinha, another debutant in the Brazilian squad, also impresses the experienced Chelsea mandekker.
Brazil did not get further than a goalless draw against Colombia last Sunday. It was only the first loss of points for the team of national coach Tite this World Cup qualifying campaign. Raphinha came in after an hour of play, Antony ten minutes later. The two substitutes were unable to make the difference. “Had we won we would have been talking more about Antony and Raphinha,” said Thiago Silva, quoted by UOL Esporte.
Antony scores immediately on his debut I Venezuela – Brazil I Highlights
The 37-year-old center defender is experiencing this international match for the first time, Antony and Raphinha, and is full of praise. “What these guys show as newcomers is something I’ve hardly seen in over ten years with the Brazilian squad. It’s cool to see how they show their personality. There is still a little lack of coordination, but individually they are at a high level. That is also what the national coach asks for,” said the veteran.
Antony, who became Olympic champion with Brazil in Tokyo last summer, can play his third international match this week. In the night from Thursday to Friday (02.30 Dutch time), leader Brazil will take on Uruguay, the number four in the CONMEBOL zone. Antony is under contract with Ajax until mid-2025. Its market value is increased by Transfermarkt estimated at 25 million euros.
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