Ahead of Chile’s debut in the Women’s Copa America, the historic midfielder analyzes the team’s options in the competition. “We are not favorites at all,” he says, clinching the national pretensions.
The career of Karen Araya (31) is a perfect example of the rise of women’s football in the country. The national player, who a few weeks ago became the incorporation of Madrid Club de Fútbol, is one of the emblems of the current generation of Chilean footballers. She was multi-champion in Colo Colo, she also won titles in Santiago Morning; He also played in Brazil and Spain, where he will play next season. “It’s exciting to think about what he’s achieved,” he said, looking back on his football journey.
Now he is ready to start a new challenge. He does it with the jersey of the national team, of which he is the symbol and the reference. This Monday, the national team makes its debut in the Copa América, against Paraguay. In the latest version of the continental tournament, the team led by José Letelier obtained second place. The midfielder prefers caution when talking about favoritism. “For nothing. We had a good process, supported years ago. It allowed us to maintain and improve our level, but since the Copa América 2018, all South American teams have raised their level. Today ‘today they bet on women’s football”, he said, at the start of the conversation with Jock .
What is your goal for this tournament?
We plan to go game by game. You have to compete in the best way, but the important thing is not to distract from the nearest encounter. Now we have our minds set on Paraguay and then we will see the other rivals.
Do the two previous defeats against Venezuela raise doubts?
No. On the contrary, these games have helped us a lot. You have to adapt, see what you can improve. This is what we have done in recent weeks, after these two meetings.
Is this the last option the women’s team has to win the Copa America?
This will not be the last opportunity for Chile to position themselves in good and due form in the competition. There are a lot of Copa América to come and our team put in a great performance. Even in the lower categories, under 20 and under 17.
Is the end of this golden generation that you started in 2008 approaching?
No. I have no intention of retiring yet and I don’t think any of my colleagues have. We will continue in the Red until someone better than us arrives and we have to force our way out.
Do you see a replacement?
Yes. Especially now. In this team we have very young girls, some under 20 years old. On previous FIFA dates, we even took players under the age of 17. The replacement exists. It will be important for these generations to continue working, not to lose continuity. As long as we integrate them, there will always be a replacement.
The fear that existed that women’s football was a fad has always been commented on. It was? It is?
It wasn’t and it isn’t. We had a moment in 2008 when there was a boom. Then certain decisions made it disappear, but recently we have shown that women’s football is here to stay. We see it when we play and the stadiums fill up, or with the number of people who go to see the clubs lately. There are sponsors and TV shows. Fashion is nothing.
Are all the conditions met to be able to evolve in women’s football?
Comparing what it was a few years ago and what it is today, it has improved a lot, but I think there is still room for improvement. The more support, the more visualization, you can always improve. The conditions are.
Have economic conditions improved somewhat compared to the past?
There is still a lot to improve. But if you compare it to what it was at one point, we’re on the right track.
How does having Endler, the best goalkeeper in the world, influence Chile’s goal?
It gives us giant security and tranquility. It is an important advantage for our national team that they, with all the achievements they have had in recent times, are with us. It is a pride. We go on the attack and we know that we have the bow well protected.
Do you feel more pressure to try to be on their level and meet their expectations?
So far I don’t feel any pressure. As a group, we are calm. Anxious yes, but in a hurry no. We know what we have to do. We have worked hard for four years and will continue to do so with the same enthusiasm we have shown each time we represent the national team.
How do you receive your transfer to Madrid Club de Fútbol?
I am very happy. Glad to have a new opportunity. Playing in Spain is something that makes me excited, impatient and happy. Living this new experience generates expectations in me, because it is a very competitive league.
15 years ago he played at Puente Alto and today he stands out at the top of Europe. Did you imagine it?
Never. I remember very well that when we went to the Olympics, I spoke with Camila (Sáez), my best friend, with whom I always go out in the tunnel, and I said to her: “Imagine that leaving Puente Alto, I arrive at the biggest and most beautiful stadiums in the world. . From the neighborhood, to the best courts”. It’s something very beautiful, it excites me. The whole journey, my career, has been a wonderful experience. It’s exciting to think of what he’s accomplished, coming from one of the most stigmatized communities.
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Source: Latercera
I am Sandra Jackson, a journalist and content creator with extensive experience in the news industry. I have been working in the news media for over five years. During this time, I have worked as an author and editor at various outlets producing high-quality content that attracts readers from different demographics.
