Ex-Brazil keeper Dida set for Portuguesa debut

CHICAGO – MAY 30: Goalkeeper Dida #1 of AC Milan in net while taking on the Chicago Fire during an international friendly at Toyota Park on May 30, 2010 in Chicago, Illinois.

Rio de Janeiro – Former AC Milan goalkeeper Dida will play his first competitive match in two years Saturday when he makes his debut for Portuguesa in a Brasileirao championship match against Sao Paulo.

Portuguesa coach Geninho confirmed Monday the 2002 World Cup winner would make his eagerly anticipated first appearance for the club at the Caninde Stadium, reported Xinhua.

“With him in our team we will be a lot stronger and more experienced,” Geninho said.

Dida was signed by Portuguesa last month after the departure of the club’s first choice keeper Weverton to Brazilian top-flight rivals Atletico-PR.

The 38-year-old has undertaken a strict training programme in a bid to regain fitness.

“I feel good and confident of being able to perform at a high standard,” Dida said.

The two-time Champions League winner was approached by Portuguesa after his participation in a beach soccer tournament in Sao Paulo last month.