USWNT and two-time Women's World Cup winner Mia Hamm has backed the message delivered by Brazilian superstar Marta earlier in the tournament, during which the six-time FIFA World Player of the Year implored young players in Brazil to keep the fire burning.
Brazil were eliminated by France in the first knockout round and Marta, at the age of 33, may well have played the last World Cup game of a glittering career.
Cristiane, 34, and Formiga, 41, are other veteran members of the Seleção squad who are unlikely to be back on the this stage come the next tournament in 2023 and it is vital for the future of the team that the next generation of young girls in Brazil replace them.