Raphael Veiga wins early praise in América debut, says adaptation to Mexico is going well
Raphael Veiga, the former Palmeiras star, made his first appearances for Club América over the weekend and left an impression on Mexican fans despite not scoring. The attacking midfielder entered at halftime of the Concacaf Champions matchup with CD Olimpia, helping América secure a 0-0 draw that was enough to advance on aggregate.
Short cameo, noticeable impact
Veiga did not start the match but was brought on at the interval. He was unable to find the net, and the game finished goalless, yet observers in Mexico quickly highlighted his movement, technical control and willingness to link play. Several fans noted that, even in limited minutes, Veiga’s quality and commitment were clear, describing him as a player who asks for the ball, plays accurate first touches and offers a clean, practical style that can help connect midfield to attack.
The result sent América through to the next round after a 2-1 win in the first leg. While the night on the field provided few clear-cut chances for either side, Veiga’s brief appearance was enough to spark optimism among supporters who see him as a creative and decisive addition as the team looks to convert possession into more consistent attacking fluency.
Warm welcome off the pitch, smooth adaptation
Veiga has described his start in Mexico as very positive. He said teammates and staff made him feel comfortable from the moment he arrived, even putting on Brazilian music in the dressing room as part of the reception. That gesture, he noted, helped ease the transition and fostered a quick connection with his new colleagues.
The move to América is a one-season loan with an option to buy, and the club is covering his salary. The transfer followed a period at his former club in which he lost some playing time under the current coaching setup. Veiga remains one of that club’s most important figures historically, and he has spoken publicly about his affection for his former team even as he pursues a new chapter abroad.
On the field, the coaching staff has begun integrating him carefully, giving him substitute minutes in league play before increasing his role in regional competition. Veiga’s comments emphasize that the supportive environment and early playing time are helping him adapt both to the club’s style and to life in Mexico.
Match atmosphere overshadowed by off-field incidents
While the result was positive for América, the match was not without controversy. Repeated homophobic chants from parts of the crowd interrupted the game on multiple occasions, and stadium staff intervened several times in an effort to stop the behavior. The hostility prompted some spectators to leave before the final whistle and renewed calls for stronger measures to ensure stadiums are inclusive and respectful for all attendees.
Beyond the immediate sporting implications, the episode highlighted ongoing challenges for organizers, clubs and fan groups working to improve conduct in the stands. Club officials and many supporters will face pressure to address these incidents more firmly as competitions continue.
For now, the focus for Veiga and América will be on building momentum: integrating a technically gifted midfielder who arrives with high expectations and giving him the platform to influence games more frequently as the season progresses.
