Football

Brazil's national football team and its coach, Dorival Junior, have expressed their dismay and condemnation over the recent rape convictions of former internationals Robinho and Dani Alves.Robinho, 40, was sentenced to nine years in prison in Brazil for his involvement in a gang rape in Italy in 2013. Alves, also 40, received a four-and-a-half year sentence for raping a young woman in a Barcelona nightclub in 2022."As coach of the national team, I have an obligation to speak out," said Dorival ahead of Brazil's international friendly against England at Wembley on Saturday. "First, I think it's a very delicate situation. I think of the families and especially the victims affected by these cases which occur every day in our country and around the world."Dorival, who took over the five-time world champions in January, said the situation of Robinho, whom he coached at Brazilian club Santos, was particularly painful for him. "If it has been proven that there was any crime, he must be punished even if it hurts my heart to say this about a person with whom I have always had an exceptional relationship," added the 61-year-old."I didn't have the opportunity to work with Daniel, but we all know his story within football. It's a difficult time for all of us to express ourselves in these situations."Dorival emphasized his concern for the victims and their families. "I know how painful it must have been for each of them. What I can do is help them with prayers, nothing more."In a statement on Friday, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) described the cases as "shameful," expressing its support for "the victims of the two brutal crimes committed by former players." CBF president Ednaldo Rodrigues added that in an environment where "machismo reigns," men must "fight not only sexual violence, but all kinds of violence."Brazil full-back Danilo, who will captain the national side against England, called on the football authorities to raise awareness among young players, to put themselves "in women's shoes in a more empathetic way."The convictions of Robinho and Alves have sparked outrage and condemnation in Brazil and around the world, highlighting the ongoing problem of sexual violence and the need for accountability in all walks of life, including the world of sports.