Deyna Castellanos: "Our work is not done" regarding World Cup qualifier

Deyna Castellanos, captain of Venezuela's women's national football team, emphasized that reaching the World Cup playoff is a significant achievement, but the team's ultimate objective, playing in the World Cup itself, is still out of reach. "Our work is not done yet. That's how we see it," Castellanos stated in The Recap Show podcast.

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In itself, it is something very special, but the work is not done yet. That's how we see it.

She stressed that the "Vinotinto" cannot afford to be complacent, as they have not yet "touched the dream" of participating in the global tournament. Castellanos highlighted the historic nature of their current position, noting that neither the men's nor the women's senior teams have ever qualified for a World Cup. "We are still alive; we have already made history," she added.

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We cannot touch the dream yet because we do not have it.

The identity of Venezuela's playoff opponent remains uncertain, as qualifying matches are ongoing in other confederations. The initial playoff round is scheduled between November 24 and December 5. Once the final phase teams are confirmed, the matches will take place from February 23 to March 6 of the following year. The 2027 World Cup is set to begin on June 24.

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We have a game that could change the history of my country.

Venezuela secured their playoff spot by finishing third in the Women's Nations League, the qualifying tournament for the 2027 World Cup. Castellanos scored a crucial equalizer against Uruguay in their final match, a 1-1 draw that was sufficient to guarantee their place in the playoff. Colombia and Argentina qualified directly for the World Cup, while Brazil will participate as hosts.

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We are still alive; we have already made history.