London 2012 football: Brazil can make history, says Man Utd’s Rafael

Rafael da Silva admits he is relishing the chance to help Brazil win their first-ever gold medal in the men’s football at the London 2012 Olympics.

The Manchester United defender has been a mainstay of Manzo Menzes’ side en route to Saturday’s final against Mexico, and the 22-year-old is desperate to help his country win the top prize.

Brazil have twice been runners-up at previous Games – 1984 and 1988 – and Rafael wants to be help his nation land the only major honour missing from the Canarinho‘s decorated history.

“It’s a massive game,” Rafael told PA Sport. “We’ve never won this title so we’ll be doing everything we can to win it for Brazil.

“This is an important tournament for us, we have secured a medal, now we need to work hard to beat Mexico.

“It would be amazing. Everyone back home is supporting us to try and get this medal.

“There is always a lot of pressure playing for Brazil and we have never won this medal. It is the only one we have never had, so we’ll do everything we can to win.”

Rafael, whose brother Fabio has moved to Queens Park Rangers on a season-long loan, is hoping his performances at the Games will help him break into Brazil’s squad for the 2014 World Cup.

“Maybe the Brazil coach will think about me for the 2014 World Cup,” he added.

“Also, maybe the people in England will think about me differently if we win the tournament. It is always good to win medals. This tournament is good for my career.”

Open a bet365 account with £10 or more and you'll get a free bet of up to £200 on us. Click here for more information.

Like The Sport Review on Facebook:

Read more on: brazil, london 2012 olympics, Manchester United, mexico, rafael da silva.