Edmílson happy for first Jamaica visit

Former Brazil defender Edmílson, who won the 2002 FIFA World Cup, said it is a fantastic feeling being able to reunite with some of his teammates ahead of their clash with the Jamaica Heroes team.

The Brazil All Stars arrived in the island this afternoon for their "Share The Love" exhibition football match at the National Stadium tomorrow evening at 7:30.

The squad is made up of Brazil's legendary players from the 1990s and early 2000s and includes Rivaldo, Edmílson, Zé Carlos, Edílson, Paulo Sérgio, and Dunga who won the 1994 World Cup as captain.

"In one word, it's fantastic. We can feel again, the same atmosphere we felt when we played (in the past). I'm tired now but I feel like playing again," Edmílson laughed.

The former Barcelona man said that he is looking forward to the game because he knows that the spectators will not only be cheering for Jamaica but also the Brazilians.

"I feel so happy to be here. I know Brazilian football inspired so many people around the world and I want to give the same inspiration to everyone here in Jamaica," Edmílson said.

Players from both teams should be familiar with each other as the two nations met three times since the late 90s. The first of these was a 0-0 draw in the CONCACAF Gold Cup in February 1998, a game infamous for an elbow by Brazilian defender Júnior Baiano which left midfielder Theodore Whitmore with a broken nose. The second was days later in the 3rd place match of the same tournament where Jamaica went down 1-0, thanks to a goal by Romário.

The third meeting was a friendly international played at the then Walkers Stadium (now renamed the King Power Stadium) in Leicester, England in 2003, where the Jamaicans also lost 1-0, courtesy of a wonder goal by Brazilian left back Roberto Carlos.

Edmílson said he remembers that game, having played, and he's curious about how much has changed with not only his teammates but the Jamaicans, as they have all aged since then.

"Of course now, it's another level," he said. "The first time in 2003, it was a high level, just after the World Cup, but the atmosphere and happiness is the same. I'm very very happy to be here. I feel the same way and I want to share this kind of experience and game with all the people of Jamaica."

The Jamaica Heroes team will include former Reggae Boyz such as Walter Boyd, Ricardo Gardner, Ian Goodison, Donald Stewart and Andy Williams.