Brazil HubThe Brazilian women's national football team has a rich and inspiring history. Marilza Martins da Silva, also known as Pelezinha, and Marisa Pires, also known as Caju, are two of the pioneers who helped build the sport in the country.
Who are these pioneers?
Marilza Martins da Silva and Marisa Pires are former athletes who played for the Esporte Clube Radar, a club founded in 1932 in Copacabana, Rio's southern zone. They were instrumental in developing women's football in Brazil.
How did they contribute to Brazilian football?
Pelezinha and Caju were two of the first women to play football in Brazil, at a time when the sport was banned for women. They helped create the Brazilian women's national football team and competed in international tournaments.
| Year | Tournament | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 1991 | Mundialito | South American champion |
| 1995 | South American Championship | South American champion |
What do they think about women's football today?
Pelezinha and Caju are excited about the growth of women's football in Brazil and around the world. They believe the sport has great potential and that women should have more opportunities to play and compete.
Brazil's last match was a 1-1 draw against Tunisia on November 18, 2025. The team has a recent record of 2 wins, 1 draw, and 1 loss in their last 4 games.
