Paris 2024: Brazil’s Jefinho hopes for fifth blind football medal
With the Eiffel Tower towering above, Brazilian blind football star Jefinho is focused on making history. He’s playing at the Paralympics in Paris, where his love for football started.
Football is a huge deal in Brazil and is almost a national pastime. It’s a sport that fits well with the Paralympic spirit because it’s accessible and adaptable.
Jefinho, whose full name is Jeferson Goncalves de Conceicao, is aiming for his fifth Paralympic gold medal. Brazil is chasing their sixth gold medal and has never lost in the Paralympic Games. However, other teams are getting closer. At Tokyo 2020, Brazil won with a tight 1-0 victory over Argentina.
Inspired by Ronaldo
Jefinho’s passion for football began in Paris. He remembers watching Brazil play in the 1998 World Cup final at the Stade de France on TV, even though Brazil lost 3-0 to France. His hero at the time was Ronaldo, who had a tough period of illness but came back to help Brazil win the World Cup in 2002.
“I remember the 1998 World Cup,” Jefinho said. “Ronaldo was my hero because of how he overcame his injuries and came back to win the World Cup. It made me fall in love with football.”
Extra Preparation
Known as ‘the Paralympic Pele,’ Jefinho is leading Brazil’s team, which is considered the team to beat. Despite the high expectations, Jefinho and his teammates feel ready. They’ve been training hard, meeting twice a day since January, which is a first for their team.
“Our preparation has been great,” Jefinho said. “We’re stronger and more united than ever. We came to Paris ready to win the gold medal together.”
Although Brazil is expected to win, Jefinho knows anything can happen. That’s why staying ahead of their rivals is crucial. “We’re experienced and used to big challenges. On the field, it’s five against five, and there are no favorites. We’re just focused on our goals and handling pressure well.”
Growth of Blind Football
Jefinho has seen blind football grow since his first Paralympics in Beijing 2008. “It’s great to see how much the sport has grown. People are more interested and involved now,” he said.
As Brazil continues its dominant run in blind football, Jefinho is more motivated than ever to succeed in the city where his football inspiration began.
