Joker? Why Beraldo laughs at the anthem before national team games

Beraldo, defender of the Brazilian national team Image: Photo: Reproduction/Instagram do Beraldo

Beraldo caught the world’s attention when he appeared smiling from ear to ear during the playing of the National Anthem in the friendly between Brazil and England. The gesture, however, does not just represent happiness.

What happened

Beraldo smiles like the “Joker” in a mental exercise. He learned the technique from a coach in 2023, when he was still at São Paulo, and now he uses it for the national team and for PSG, especially in the Champions League.

Unlike Batman’s villainous character, the smile does not hide the sadness. Tactics are a way of concentrating before the ball rolls.