Marta will lead Brazil’s squad at the 2023 Women’s World Cup

Coach Pia Sundhage announced Tuesday that Marta will lead a fresh-faced Brazil in its attempt to win its first women’s World Cup.

The legendary number 10 will be playing in her sixth World Cup in Australia and New Zealand after battling back from a knee injury that sidelined her for nearly a year.

“Marta is the ‘Queen’, the icon, and just to be around her is contagious,” Sundhage told reporters as she announced her 23-player squad.

“In the final pass, she is one of the best. Would she start in the line-up? I don’t know yet.”

Brazil are at a generational crossroads and aren’t expected to win the Copa America.

Sundhage selected 11 players who will make their World Cup debuts – but the Swedish coach also included tournament veterans like goalkeepers Leticia and Barbara, defenders Kathellen, Rafaelle and Tamires, and forwards Bia Zaneratto, Andressa Alves and Debinha.

On July 24, Brazil’s World Cup campaign will begin in Adelaide against Panama, who are in Group F with France, Jamaica, and Panama.

Brazil Women’s World cup 2023 squad

Goalkeepers: Leticia Izidoro (Corinthians), Barbara (Flamengo), Camila (Santos)

Defenders: Antonia (Levante, ESP), Bruninha (Gotham FC, USA), Kathellen (Real Madrid, ESP), Lauren (Madrid CFF, ESP), Monica (Madrid CFF, ESP), Rafaelle, Tamires (Corinthians)

Midfielders: Duda Sampaio (Corinthians), Kerolin (North Carolina Courage, USA), Luana (Corinthians), Adriana (Orlando Pride, USA), Ana Vitoria, Ary Borges (Louisville City, USA)

Forwards: Andressa Alves, Geyse (Barcelona, ESP), Nycole (Benfica, POR), Bia Zaneratto (Palmeiras), Debinha (Kansas City Current, USA), Gabi Nunes, Marta (Orlando Pride, USA)