PSV’s Mauro Júnior reflects on breakthrough Brazil camp

PSV defender Mauro Júnior has reflected on an international window in which he earned his first Brazil call-up and accumulated three senior caps. The 27-year-old made his debut on 25 September, replacing Douglas Santos for the final 15 minutes of a 1-1 friendly draw with Australia.

Four days later, Mauro was handed his first Brazil start as the Seleção recorded a 4-2 win in another meeting with Australia. He then came off the bench after an hour against India in Kolkata, contributing a goal-line clearance and setting up Samuel Lino for the final goal of a 4-0 victory.

Mauro praised Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti for quickly showing faith in him, calling the Italian a “legendary coach” in comments carried by Voetbalzone. He said Ancelotti instructed him to push forward and deliver crosses during his debut, when Brazil were trailing 1-0, before asking him to provide defensive support for Vinícius Júnior in the second match.

The PSV player had previously shared the pitch with Vinícius in Brazil’s youth sides, although Mauro was then operating as a midfielder rather than at full-back. He said the Real Madrid forward helped him integrate into the senior squad and also highlighted his good relationship with Gabriel Magalhães. Mauro has since returned to the Netherlands and is preparing with PSV for Friday’s Eredivisie match against SC Heerenveen.