Brazil national under-23 football team
National youth football team.
The Brazil national under-23 football team, known as Seleção Sub-23, represents Brazil in international competitions such as the Olympic Games and the Pan American Games. Managed by the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF), the team is composed of players under the age of 23, with the inclusion of three overage players allowed.
Brazil U23 is one of the most successful teams in Olympic football history, having won the tournament twice, in 2016 and 2020, and securing a total of seven medals—two golds, three silvers, and two bronzes. The team's first gold medal came during the 2016 Summer Olympics held in Rio de Janeiro, where they defeated Germany in a dramatic penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw. This victory was particularly significant as it marked Brazil's first Olympic gold in football, a title that had eluded them despite previous silver medal finishes in 1984, 1988, and 2012.
In the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo, Brazil successfully defended their title by defeating Spain 2-1 in the final. Matheus Cunha scored the opening goal, and Malcom netted the decisive goal in extra time, solidifying Brazil's status as a powerhouse in youth football.
Historically, Brazil has participated in multiple Olympic tournaments since their first entry in 1952, achieving varying results. The team has consistently been a strong contender, often featuring top talents who later transition to the senior national squad.