Brazil’s fut7 national team is completing its preparations for the 2026 Pan-AM Cup, which will be held from December 1 to 4 in Puerto Montt, Chile. Organized by the Brazilian Football 7 Confederation, the continental tournament offers the champion direct qualification for the 2027 Minifootball World Cup.
The Northern region will be represented in the Brazilian squad by two professionals from Rondônia: 28-year-old winger Levy Lucas and coach Mister Maurição. Maurição has led the national team since 2024 and remains unbeaten in Brazil’s colors, including the period when he represented the team as a player.
The delegation also includes Rondônia physiotherapist Vanderlei Nascimento. Physiotherapist Ádria Silva will provide remote support during the tournament.
The competition will require tactical adjustments compared with traditional seven-a-side football. Teams will play with one fewer player, while the goals will have different, smaller dimensions. Maurição said representing Brazil is the highest honor for an athlete, but acknowledged the challenges posed by the format.
“Being on the national team is the highest honor for any sportsman,” Maurição said, adding that he hopes to compete for the title alongside the coaching staff and players. He also emphasized the need to adapt to what he described as almost another sport.
For Levy Lucas, the call-up represents the culmination of a career that began in futsal and amateur football in Porto Velho. He later established himself with Real Porto FC and won the Copa América de Naciones, where he finished as the tournament’s leading assist provider.
Levy described the selection as a source of pride, happiness and gratitude. He said representing Brazil was a lifelong honor and credited his family, friends, coaching staff and Real Porto for their support. He also promised to work harder and give his best in Chile.
Maurição praised Levy as an exceptional player, highlighting his match rhythm, tactical commitment and ability to add dynamism to games. The coach said the winger’s recent performances for Brazil, particularly at the Copa América, could help the team compete for another podium finish.
The coach also linked the presence of Rondônia representatives in the national team to Real Porto’s recent results. According to Maurição, the club has won four of the five competitions it has entered so far, describing it as the best start of his coaching career. He said the team’s performances have increased the players’ visibility and created opportunities to represent Brazil and attract interest from clubs outside the state.
Brazil’s squad for the Pan-AM Cup is completed by goalkeepers Jonas and Cássio; defenders Lipe and Sono; wingers Gabriel, Rafinha and Levy; midfielders Luiz Silva, Titon and Louva; and forwards Carranca and Júnior.
Sources: Globo Esporte.