Amanda Lyssa de Oliveira Crisóstomo—known across the futsal world simply as Amandinha—once again proved why she is regarded as the greatest female player of all time, delivering a crucial goal that helped propel Brazil to the finals of the 2025 FIFA Futsal World Cup.
The 31-year-old superstar, who has spent more than a decade redefining what is possible in the sport, spoke with visible joy after Brazil’s 4–1 semifinal victory over Portugal at the Philsports Arena in Pasig. But beyond the win, Amandinha said she felt privileged to bring her craft to the Philippines.
“Win or not, we are here for the 100 million people that live and breathe futsal, especially the kids,” she said, addressing the roaring crowd after the match. Her message—equal parts humility and passion—echoed the values that have made her not only a champion but an ambassador of the game.
Amandinha’s name has become synonymous with excellence. She has been hailed Best Female Futsal Player in the World for an unprecedented eight consecutive years, from 2014 to 2021—a dominance often compared to the reigns of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo in football. Her influence on the sport in Brazil has made her both an icon and an inspiration for a new generation of women athletes.
Playing her trademark left-wing position with unmatched speed and precision, Amandinha struck one of the first two goals that set the tone early against Portugal. Brazil’s relentless attack secured the 4–1 win, booking them a place in the championship match. Portugal also secured a finals berth earlier with a commanding 7–1 victory over Spain, arranging a high-stakes showdown between two global futsal powerhouses.
“The job isn’t done yet. There is still the finals,” Amandinha reminded supporters, refusing to look too far ahead despite the momentum her team has built.
For Brazil, she is more than a star—she is the heartbeat of the national squad. Her leadership, mastery, and consistency have anchored the team through multiple world tournaments and helped deliver numerous club championships, including titles in the Copa Libertadores Feminina.
Throughout the tournament in Manila, the Brazilian side has rallied around her experience and composure. Their march to the finals began with a dominant sweep of their Group D assignments, highlighted by Amandinha’s two goals in a resounding 6–1 victory over Italy.
Her journey to superstardom began early. Turning professional at just 16, she rapidly ascended the ranks and emerged on the global radar at age 20, after guiding Brazil to three World University Championship titles. Since then, she has become the face of women’s futsal—a pioneer whose legacy continues to grow with each international stage she steps onto.
As Manila embraces the spectacle of the world’s best, Amandinha stands at the center of it all: a legend in motion, carrying not just a team but a sport forward—one dazzling goal at a time.
