Brazil forward Marta is set to play in her sixth Women’s World Cup after being named in the squad for next month’s tournament.
The 37-year-old has won FIFA’s world player of the year award six times, but has not won the World Cup in five previous attempts.
Marta had surgery to repair a torn anterior cruciate ligament last year and, speaking ahead of the squad announcement, Brazil boss Pia Sundhage said the Orlando Pride player could be used off the bench in what is expected to be her last World Cup.
“I don’t know whether she will be in the starting line-up,” the Swedish coach said. “She could come off the bench as well. I am sure she will give everything.
“Let’s say she was the best player in the world. You are still a team and you have to build that team. Depending on what is happening out there we have some options. One of the best things of this team is that we are flexible and can still keep our confidence.”
Flamengo goalkeeper Barbara, 34, was a surprise inclusion after missing out on earlier squad selections, but striker Cristiane, who has scored 11 goals for Brazil in previous editions, did not make the cut.
Eleven of Brazil’s 23 players have never played at a World Cup, but Sundhage said at a news conference that a mix of youth and experience “could…
