WOMEN'S SOCCER WORLD CUP: USA defeated Brazil in the drama of penalties

USA advanced into the semi-finals of the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup™ by defeating Brazil on penalties in a drama-charged encounter in Dresden.


Victory for USA sets up a last-four meeting with France on Wednesday and continues their record of never missing the semi-finals.

USA led after just two minutes thanks to an own goal from Brazil defender Daiane, who turned a Shannon Boxx cross into her own net.

The South Americans were able to recover thanks to a twice-taken penalty midway through the second half, and Marta doubled her tally just two minutes into extra time.

The match seemed over until Abby Wambach claimed heroine status with an equaliser deep into injury time, with USA then prevailing 5-3 on penalties.

Following the early goal USA maintained their bright start with Wambach narrowly missing with a header from a smart Christie Rampone free-kick.

Brazil finally started to come into the contest with Aline’s header hitting the side-netting from Marta’s well-taken corner.

Marta then went on a lung-bursting 80 metre run only for Rampone to maintain pressure on the Brazilian, who fired over.

Seven minutes before the interval came Brazil’s best chance of the half as Fabiana’s shot from a narrow angle hit the crossbar.

The second 45 minutes commenced in muted fashion before bursting into life midway through the half. Marta was brought down in the penalty area, with USA suffering a double blow as defender Rachel Buehler was dismissed. Cristiane saw her penalty saved only for a retake to be ordered, and this time Marta coolly converted.

Extra time commenced perfectly for Brazil as Marta scored another high-quality goal worthy of the world’s greatest stage. The five-time FIFA World Player of the Year collected a pass from the left and deftly flicked it home via the far post.

Despite playing with ten players, USA continued to press at every opportunity and finally got their reward two minutes into injury time as a superb Megan Rapinoe cross found Wambach, who stretched to head home just inside the post.

The only failure in the penalty shootout was Brazil defender Daiane, who saw her effort saved by Hope Solo, allowing Alex Krieger to convert for a famous USA victory.

Player of the match: Hope Solo (USA)

QUOTES

Brazil coach Kleiton Lima


It was a tough, close-fought match. We knew before the game that USA are a very strong side. Our team may be a little more creative, but we just couldn't impose ourselves today. We wanted to get forward and hit them on the counter, but unfortunately we conceded another goal towards the end of extra time, which took it to penalties. I still think we've had a good World Cup, even if ultimately we didn't achieve our goal.
USA coach Pia Sundhage

It's hard to put all the feelings that are going through my head right now into words. I come from Sweden, but this core American value of bringing the best out of one another is infectious. I'm very proud and happy to be coach of the USA.
USA goalkeeper and Player of the Match Hope Solo

What I love about this team is the fact that you can feel the energy and trust - even after the defeat against Sweden. That's the really special thing about this group. Even when we were a player down and a goal behind in extra time, you sensed that something was going to happen. The team kept fighting. You can't teach that. It's a feeling - and we play with that feeling.

THE DAY REPLAYED 
 
The two quarter-finals of the FIFA Women’s World Cup Germany 2011™ played on Sunday proved to be a real test of nerves for players and fans alike. After both France and Japan needed an additional 30 minutes to qualify on Saturday, it was the turn of USA to draw out the suspense by taking their game against Brazil into extra time. And just like Les Bleues, their upcoming semi-final opponents, the North Americans required penalty kicks to see off their resolute rivals.


Again inspired by an impressive Marta, Brazil may look back with regret on this loss, during which they contrived to score an own goal in the opening minutes, fail to properly capitalise on a second-half numerical advantage, and concede an equaliser in the final seconds of extra time.

Earlier on in the day, Sweden saw off Australia to qualify for the last four in more straightforward circumstances, as their challengers were unable to live up to their status of dark horses. Under a scorching afternoon sun, the Scandinavians put on a display of composure and maturity, scoring from sharp, well-constructed moves, and taking full advantage of some of the errors present in the inexperienced Australians’ play.

The Matildas can nevertheless be proud of what they have achieved, recording double the number of victories at this year’s event than they had in all of their previous FIFA Women’s World Cup appearances put together. Their one previous win had come four years ago at China 2007, where they also fell at the quarter-final stage.

Results

Sweden 3-1 Australia

Brazil 2-2 USA (aet, USA win 5-3 on penalties)




Goal of the day


Brazil-USA, Abby Wambach 120+2'


Deep in injury time of extra time, the Americans, with just ten players and trailing 2-1 following Marta’s second goal of the match, looked to be down and out. But with virtually the last kick of the ball, Megan Rapinoe hoisted a deep cross into the box that appeared to be heading straight into the gloves of Andrea in the Brazil goal. The Canarinhas' keeper miscalculated her dive, however, missing the ball by the slightest of margins and allowing Abby Wambach to thump a header into the back of the net for her second goal of the competition. The unlikely equaliser saved the United States from defeat and eventually propelled them into the semi-finals, with the help of a penalty shootout.
Memorable moments


Lively Lotta

The Australians were twice found guilty of defensive naivety in their quarter-final clash today. Knocking the ball back to the goalkeeper is a dangerous game to play when faced with a forward with the instincts of Sweden’s Lotta Schelin. When the Lyon striker failed to punish Collette McCallum’s error early on in the match, this should perhaps have served as a warning for the Antipodean side. The second time around the Swede would make no mistake, pouncing on Kim Carroll’s wayward pass to round the keeper and score her country’s third goal of the day.
Record collection

The 28th meeting between Brazil and USA was an amazing encounter that swung this way and that. It was also a match that saw two new FIFA Women’s World Cup records set. The first came right at the start when, with under two minutes on the clock, the unfortunate Daiane scored the quickest own goal in the history of the tournament. The second now belongs to Abby Wambach who, with an equaliser in the 122nd minute of the game, scored the latest goal the event has ever seen.

The stat

14 – The number of FIFA Women’s World Cup goals scored by Brazil star Marta, whose two quarter-final strikes against USA saw her draw level with Birgit Prinz’s all-time tournament record. This achievement may offer the South American some measure of consolation, following her team’s dramatic defeat by USA. A little further down the list on 11, Abby Wambach would appear to be the only player in with a possibility of equalling or surpassing this total at Germany 2011.
The quote

“Things just fell into place for my goal. It was a bit of a relief for me, because Sweden’s first two goals stemmed from moves down my side, so I kind of owed it to my team-mates. But what an incredible feeling it was to score, especially when you play at the back and you don’t get that many shooting chances,” Ellyse Perry, Australia right-back and scorer of her nation’s goal against Sweden
Next up

Wednesday 13 July (semi-finals)

France-USA, Monchengladbach, 18.00 CET

Japan-Sweden, Frankfurt, 20.45 CET


BRAZIL VS USA RESULT AND STATISTICS
 
2:2 a.e.t. (1:1, 0:1) 3:5 PSO


MARTA (68' PEN 92')

DAIANE (2' OG)

Abby WAMBACH (120'+2)

Match 28 - Group Dresden

Rudolf-Harbig-Stadion Dresden Referee: Jacqui MELKSHAM (AUS)
 
Brazil - USA2:2 a.e.t. (1:1, 0:1) 3:5 PSOMatch Date Venue / Stadium Time Attendance


28 10 July 2011 Dresden / Rudolf-Harbig-Stadion Dresden 17:30 25598



Goals scored

DAIANE (BRA) 2' Own goal, MARTA (BRA) 68' Penalty goal, MARTA (BRA) 92', Abby WAMBACH (USA) 120'+2

Brazil

Line-up

[1] ANDREIA (GK)

[2] MAURINE

[3] DAIANE [Y]

[4] ALINE (C)

[6] ROSANA (-85')

[7] ESTER

[8] FORMIGA (-113')

[10] MARTA

[11] CRISTIANE

[13] ERIKA

[14] FABIANA

Substitute(s)

[12] BARBARA (GK)

[21] THAIS (GK)

[5] RENATA COSTA [Y] (+113')

[9] BEATRIZ

[15] FRANCIELLE [Y] (+85')

[16] ELAINE

[17] DANIELE

[18] THAIS GUEDES

[19] GRAZIELLE

[20] ROSEANE

Coach

Kleiton LIMA (BRA)USA

Line-up

[1] Hope SOLO (GK)

[3] Christie RAMPONE (C)

[6] Amy LE PEILBET [Y]

[7] Shannon BOXX

[8] Amy RODRIGUEZ (-72')

[9] Heather O REILLY (-108')

[10] Carli LLOYD

[11] Alex KRIEGER

[12] Lauren CHENEY (-55')

[19] Rachel BUEHLER

[20] Abby WAMBACH [Y]

Substitute(s)

[18] Nicole BARNHART (GK)

[21] Jill LOYDEN (GK)

[2] Heather MITTS

[4] Becky SAUERBRUNN

[5] Kelley O HARA

[13] Alex MORGAN (+72')

[14] Stephanie COX

[15] Megan RAPINOE (+55')

[16] Lori LINDSEY

[17] Tobin HEATH (+108')

Coach

Pia SUNDHAGE (SWE)Cautions

Carli LLOYD (USA) 29', ALINE (BRA) 44', MARTA (BRA) 45', Hope SOLO (USA) 67', Megan RAPINOE (USA) 90'+1, MAURINE (BRA) 112', Shannon BOXX (USA) 113', ERIKA (BRA) 117'

Sent off

Rachel BUEHLER (USA) 65'

Penalty Shoot-out



CRISTIANE 11GoalMARTA 10GoalDAIANE 3SavedFRANCIELLE 15GoalShannon BOXX 7GoalCarli LLOYD 10GoalAbby WAMBACH 20GoalMegan RAPINOE 15GoalAlex KRIEGER 11GoalBrazil (BRA) Statistics USA (USA)

16 Shots 14

6 Shots on goal 5

2 Goals Scored 2

19 Fouls Committed 17

15 Fouls Suffered 17

6 Corner kicks 11

1 Free kicks Shots (scored) 4

1 / 1 Penalty Kicks (Goals/Shots) 0 / 0

2 Offsides 4

1 Own Goals 0

4 Yellow cards 4

0 Second yellow card and red card 0

0 Red Cards 1

33 Actual playing time 34

50% Possession (%) 50%



a.e.t.: After extra time (C): Captain PSO: Penalty Shoot-out

GK: Goalkeeper N: Not eligible to play I: Injured

Y: Misses next match if booked Pos: Positions A: Absent

Play-by-Play The penalty shoot-out is over.


5 KRIEGER (USA) successfully converts the penalty!

5 FRANCIELLE (Brazil) successfully converts the penalty!

5 RAPINOE (USA) successfully converts the penalty!

5 DAIANE R. (Brazil) sees her penalty saved by the goalkeeper.

5 WAMBACH (USA) successfully converts the penalty!

5 MARTA (Brazil) successfully converts the penalty!

5 LLOYD (USA) successfully converts the penalty!

5 CRISTIANE (Brazil) successfully converts the penalty!

5 BOXX (USA) successfully converts the penalty!

The penalty shoot-out is about to begin.

The referee blows for the end of the second period of extra time.

120' +4 32 The goalkeeper of USA pulls off a save.

120' +4 8 A player from Brazil sees her effort hit the target.

120' +2 3 (2 - 2) WAMBACH (USA) scores!!

120' +1 7 USA tries a shot on goal, but it is off-target.

119' 32 The goalkeeper of USA pulls off a save.

119' 8 A player from Brazil sees her effort hit the target.

118' 7 USA strike their free-kick wide.

118' 11 A player from Brazil commits a foul.

117' 1 ERIKA (Brazil) is yellow carded.

117' 10 USA take the corner kick.

114' 10 USA swing in the corner.

113' 7 Brazil strike their free-kick wide.

113' 4 RENATA C. (in) comes off the bench to replace FORMIGA (out) (Brazil)

113' 1 BOXX (USA) is booked by the referee.

113' 11 USA are penalised after committing a foul.

112' 1 MAURINE (Brazil) is cautioned.

111' 11 USA concede a free-kick following a challenge on a player from Brazil.

111' 6 USA has a shot blocked.

108' 4 HEATH (in) comes off the bench to replace O'REILLY (out) (USA)

108' 7 USA strike their free-kick wide.

107' 11 A player from Brazil illegally handles the ball.

The referee signals the start of the second period of extra time.

The referee blows for the end of the first period of extra time.

105' +1 9 A player from Brazil is adjudged to be in an offside position.

104' 10 Brazil take the corner kick.

103' 7 Brazil tries a shot on goal, but it is off-target.

101' 9 Brazil are ruled offside.

101' 10 Brazil swing in the corner.

100' 10 Brazil take the corner kick.

98' 11 A player from Brazil commits a foul.

98' 10 USA swing in the corner.

98' 32 The goalkeeper of Brazil pulls off a save.

98' 8 A player from USA sees her effort hit the target.

97' 10 USA take the corner kick.

96' 10 USA swing in the corner.

95' 11 Brazil are penalised after committing a foul.

93' 10 USA take the corner kick.

92' 3 (2 - 1) MARTA (Brazil) scores!!

91' 9 A player from USA is adjudged to be in an offside position.

The referee signals the start of the first period of extra time.

End of regular time - extra time to follow...

90' +4 6 USA has a shot blocked.

90' +3 32 The goalkeeper of Brazil pulls off a save.

90' +3 8 A player from USA sees her effort hit the target.

90' +1 1 RAPINOE (USA) is yellow carded.

90' 11 Brazil concede a free-kick following a challenge on a player from USA.

89' 11 A player from Brazil commits a foul.

88' 11 USA are penalised after committing a foul.

86' 11 Brazil concede a free-kick following a challenge on a player from USA.

85' 4 FRANCIELLE (in) comes off the bench to replace ROSANA (out) (Brazil)

83' 10 Brazil swing in the corner.

82' 10 USA take the corner kick.

82' 6 USA has a shot blocked.

82' 10 USA swing in the corner.

81' 6 Brazil has a shot blocked.

78' 9 USA are ruled offside.

76' 10 USA take the corner kick.

75' 7 USA tries a shot on goal, but it is off-target.

72' 4 MORGAN (in) comes off the bench to replace RODRIGUEZ (out) (USA)

70' 6 Brazil has a shot blocked.

68' 3 (1 - 1) MARTA (Brazil) successfully converts the penalty!

67' 1 SOLO (USA) is booked by the referee.

65' 2 BUEHLER (USA) is sent off!

65' 11 A player from Brazil is fouled inside the box by a player from USA.

65' 7 Brazil tries a shot on goal, but it is off-target.

63' 7 So close! USA hit the free-kick against the crossbar.

63' 11 A player from Brazil commits a foul.

60' 32 The goalkeeper of USA pulls off a save.

60' 8 A player from Brazil sees her effort hit the target.

59' 11 A player from Brazil illegally handles the ball.

59' 10 Brazil swing in the corner.

57' 11 Brazil are penalised after committing a foul.

56' 9 A player from USA is adjudged to be in an offside position.

55' 4 RAPINOE (in) comes off the bench to replace CHENEY (out) (USA)

51' 11 A player from USA illegally handles the ball.

49' 11 USA concede a free-kick following a challenge on a player from Brazil.

47' 11 A player from USA commits a foul.

The second half kicks off.

The referee brings the first half to an end.

45' +2 11 USA are penalised after committing a foul.

45' +1 11 Brazil concede a free-kick following a challenge on a player from USA.

45' +1 11 A player from USA commits a foul.

45' 1 MARTA (Brazil) is cautioned.

44' 1 ALINE (Brazil) is yellow carded.

44' 11 Brazil are penalised after committing a foul.

43' 32 The goalkeeper of Brazil pulls off a save.

43' 8 A player from USA sees her effort hit the target.

38' 7 So close! A player from Brazil rattles the crossbar.

37' 11 A player from USA illegally handles the ball.

36' 32 The goalkeeper of USA pulls off a save.

36' 8 A player from Brazil sees her effort hit the target.

34' 11 USA concede a free-kick following a challenge on a player from Brazil.

31' 11 A player from Brazil commits a foul.

29' 1 LLOYD (USA) is booked by the referee.

29' 11 USA are penalised after committing a foul.

27' 7 Brazil tries a shot on goal, but it is off-target.

26' 9 USA are ruled offside.

25' 11 Brazil concede a free-kick following a challenge on a player from USA.

23' 7 Brazil tries a shot on goal, but it is off-target.

23' 11 A player from Brazil commits a foul.

22' 7 Brazil tries a shot on goal, but it is off-target.

22' 10 Brazil take the corner kick.

21' 6 Brazil has a shot blocked.

20' 11 USA are penalised after committing a foul.

19' 11 USA concede a free-kick following a challenge on a player from Brazil.

19' 11 A player from Brazil commits a foul.

17' 7 USA tries a shot on goal, but it is off-target.

15' 11 USA are penalised after committing a foul.

12' 10 USA swing in the corner.

12' 10 USA take the corner kick.

12' 32 The goalkeeper of Brazil pulls off a save.

12' 8 USA hit their free-kick on target.

11' 11 Brazil concede a free-kick following a challenge on a player from USA.

9' 11 A player from USA commits a foul.

5' 11 Brazil are penalised after committing a foul.

4' 11 USA concede a free-kick following a challenge on a player from Brazil.

2' 3 (0 - 1) DAIANE R. (Brazil) scores an own goal!!

1' 11 A player from Brazil commits a foul.

The match kicks off.

WOMEN'S SOCCER WORLD CUP 2011: Victory for Sweden and disaster for United States and Norway

Victory for Sweden and disaster for United States and Norway


Matchday 10 is one two former winners of the FIFA Women's World Cup Germany 2011™, namely Norway and USA, will want to forget. A pair of 2-1 defeats, to Australia and Sweden respectively, left them both suffering different fates. For Norway, it was the first time they had failed to qualify for the last eight in their past eight FIFA women's tournaments, while USA lost their proud unbeaten record in the group stage.

For Australia and Brazil, however, there were reasons to cheer. By virtue of their 3-0 win over Equatorial Guinea, the South Americans won their group for the fourth time in a row and, just like in 2007, they neither dropped a point nor conceded a goal. The Matildas, meanwhile, have reached the quarter-finals for the second successive time, gaining one more point in the group stage than four years ago. Today’s results complete the quarter final line-up, with Sweden meeting Australia in Augsburg and USA and Brazil squaring off in Dresden.

Results

Equatorial Guinea 0-3 Brazil

Australia 2-1 Norway

Sweden 2–1 USA

Korea DPR 0-0 Colombia

Goal of the day

Australia-Norway, Kyah Simon ‘57

Compared to yesterday, which boasted candidates for the Goal of the Tournament, stunning strikes on Matchday 10 were pretty much non-existent. But there may be no goal more dramatic at Germany 2011 than Simon's equaliser for Australia against Norway. Just 63 seconds after Elise Thorsnes had given her side the lead, Tom Sermanni’s team responded in the best possible fashion. Lisa De Vanna won possession near the corner flag, before pulling the ball back perfectly for Simon to side-foot home. It was the second-fastest equaliser at a FIFA Women's World Cup, level with Australian Dianne Alagich, who put through her own net to equalise for Russia at USA 2003. The quickest equaliser at a FIFA Women’s World Cup was scored by Nkiru Okosieme, who netted for Nigeria a matter of seconds after the Americans had scored against them 12 years ago.

Memorable moments

Me and my shadow

Coaches are always pleased when players follow the instructions to the letter. Therefore, Marcello Frigerio must have been delighted with Bruna for the job she performed on Marta during the first half of Equatorial Guinea's match with Brazil. The 27-year-old defender stuck to the five-time FIFA Women's World Player of the Year like glue, including chasing her in the South Americans' own area. Shortly before half-time, Marta went to Kleiton Lima to get some instructions and Bruna went too. Perhaps understandably, the two Brazilians decided not to talk!

Third time unlucky

Spare a thought for Ingrid Hjelmseth. Not only was she born in the same era as Norwegian great Bente Nordby, who relegated her to the bench for many years, but injury ruled her out of the past two FIFA Women's World Cups. Although she was fit and first choice for this campaign, she landed awkwardly on her left ankle after making a routine catch and required treatment. Although she was able to continue for the final 15 minutes of the first half, she was replaced at half-time by Erika Skarbo.

Dance and deliberance

Following stand-in captain Nilla Fischer’s 35th minute free-kick, which deflected off the unfortunate Amy LePeilbet, the Swedes performs their trademark celebration of Germany 2011: the dance routine of Moussier Tombola’s Logobitombo inside the penalty area. Just a few yards away, USA veteran Shannon Boxx was rallying the stunned Stars and Stripes. To all those in Wolfsburg it was a reminder that football is indeed a game of mixed emotions.

The stat

17 – Before this evening's game, USA had never lost any of their 17 group games at the FIFA Women's World Cup. Indeed, they had always finished at their section’s summit with a record of 15 wins and two draws. However, Sweden's two first-half goals condemned them to enter uncharted waters and a tricky looking quarter-final clash with Brazil in the process.

The quote

“I came off my line to collect the ball from Servet [Uzunlar], but because I was close to the edge of the box, I could collect it with my hands so I tried to use my head. It didn't work! Because I couldn't score a goal myself, I'm thanking God for the strikers that we have who were able to put the ball in the back of the net! Football is a funny game sometimes,” Melissa Barbieri, Australia goalkeeper and captain, explaining the circumstances which led to Norway’s goal in Leverkusen.

Next up

Saturday 9 July

England-France, Leverkusen, 18.00

Germany-Japan, Wolfsburg, 20.45


GERMANY VS JAPAN HUNTING FOR A BERTH ON SEMIFINALS
Two nations with very different FIFA Women's World Cup™ pedigree, Germany and Japan, will meet in Wolfsburg’s Arena Im Allerpark hunting a berth in the final four at Germany 2011. Germany have only missed qualifying for the FIFA Women’s World Cup semi-finals once; that being in the 1999 tournament.


Conversely, Japan have reached the last eight just once, which was back at Sweden 1995. Indeed prior to this tournament the Nadeshiko had won just three matches in their five previous appearances among the world elite.

The game

Germany – Japan, Saturday 9 July, Wolfsburg, 20.45 CET

The stakes

The winner of this contest will face either Sweden or Australia in Frankfurt, and will leave them only 180 minutes away from FIFA Women’s World Cup glory. Germany will of course have the benefit of home crowd support; a backing which seems to be growing in intensity with every match they play.

Unsurprisingly, history heavily favours Germany who are undefeated in their eight meetings with Japan, recording seven wins. However the last match-up, played in July 2009 in Mannheim, finished 0-0.

Japan have yet to score a goal in three defeats against Germany in the FIFA Women’s World Cup. Additionally the Nadeshiko have never defeated a European nation at the tournament, losing eight and drawing just once. However Japan have crept up the international pecking order in recent years, claiming a number of significant scalps, and they were the seeded team in Group B at Germany 2011.

Japan will be hoping that Homare Sawa returns to the kind of goalscoring form which saw the inspirational midfielder score Germany 2011's only treble, in the second group match against Mexico. Now in her fifth tournament, Sawa is set to become the second most-capped Asian player on the world stage with 16 appearances, four behind China’s Sun Wen.

The match will be particularly special for Kozue Ando and Yuki Nagasato who both featured prominently in the most recent Bundesliga season, turning out for Duisburg and Turbine Potsdam respectively.

The stat

15 – Germany are unbeaten in their last 15 matches in the FIFA Women’s World Cup, claiming an incredible 14 wins and one draw during that period. Their last defeat dates back to the 1999 quarter-final, where the European powerhouse suffered a 3-2 defeat against USA who went on to win the tournament on home soil.

The words

“You could see we wanted to win at all costs (in the final group match against France) and now we've got the confidence to face a very strong Japan side in the quarter-finals.” Silvia Neid, Germany coach.


Three and easy for Brazil, now in QF against United States 

An improved second-half showing from group winners Brazil saw them defeat Equatorial Guinea 3-0 at the FIFA Women’s World Cup Stadium in Frankfurt.

Brazil had a great chance to score with two minutes on the clock. A free-kick whipped into the box by Marta almost found both Cristiane and Erika who had made great runs, but the ball flew agonisingly between them.

The South Americans were the dominant side were enjoying a huge amount of possession. However, they were constantly let down by their wayward passing and poor anticipation. The order unforced errors gave the Nzalang Nacional confidence they grew in stature during the first half.

Indeed, an inswinging free-kick almost saw Equatorial Guinea take the lead. Anonman turned sharply to deceive her marker Ester and pounce on Dorine’s set piece, but Andreia came out to smother her goalbound effort.

Marta tried to score straight from the corner in the 27th minute, but Miriam at full stretch was able to palm the ball away. The first half petered out as a contest after that, but Brazil emerged from the from the break with more dedication.

They took the lead four minutes after the restart when Maurine’s cross-cum-shot was blocked by Miriam into the path of Erika who played the ball over Ana Cristina volleyed it home with her left foot. Six minutes later they doubled their advantage when Marta show powered down the left wing and delivered a perfect cross to the near post. Cristiane outpaced marker Dulcia to nip in ahead with her right boot.

Equatorial Guinea had their chances too. Carolina’s free-kick from 30 yards went narrowly wide and Anonman’s went even closer. Just as it seemed that the Africans may grab a consolation, Brazil scored the third of the game when Bruna far smarter in the box and from the resulting penalty Cristiane made no mistake.

Kleiton Lima’s side will now meet USA Dresden on Sunday 10 July.

Player of the match: Erika (BRA)

WOMEN'S SOCCER WORLD CUP: Like Canada, double disappointment for Norway...

There was silence, blank stares and long faces all round as Norway left the FIFA Women's World Cup Stadium in Leverkusen, the scene of their crushing 2-1 loss to Australia in the final match of Group D. The defeat not only eliminated Norway from the FIFA Women's World Cup Germany 2011™, but also denied them a place in next summer's Women's Olympic Football Tournament.


"Conceding the goal so soon after scoring the opener was very hard to take, especially considering how hard we'd worked," Norway captain Ingvild Stensland told FIFA.com, hands on hips and with a look of disbelief still etched across her face. "The match was full of emotions. One minute we were up in the clouds, the next we were crashing down to earth with a bang."

Indeed, Elise Thorsnes' goal after 56 minutes sparked scenes of joy on the Norwegian bench, but the celebrations were extremely short-lived. The Matildas hit back almost immediately after the restart, with the irrepressible Kyah Simon side-footing home a Lisa De Vanna pull-back to square the tie. Norway's lead lasted just over a minute, and the equaliser proved to be the turning point.

It's very hard to explain what we're feeling today. We're out of the competition and we won't be playing at the Olympics.Trine Ronning, Norway defender

Norway never managed to recover from the setback, with their attacking moves becoming ever more desperate and wayward as the match progressed. Lady Luck was certainly not smiling on the Scandinavians either, as Trine Ronning will no doubt attest. The experienced defender struck a superb curling free-kick in the 83rd minute, only to see it bounce back off the Australian crossbar. Just four minutes later, Simon popped up at the other end to score her second goal and seal Norway's exit.

"What can I say? It was a good strike!" said an almost speechless Ronning, before receiving a hug from coach Eli Landsem. Even Australia coach Tom Sermanni recognised his side's good fortune. "When I saw the ball come back off the crossbar I thought, 'it looks like today might be our day'," he said in a post-match press conference. For Ronning, however, disappointment was the overriding emotion: "It's very hard to explain what we're feeling today. We're out of the competition and we won't be playing at the Olympics."

Earliest exit ever

Norway won the FIFA Women's World Cup in 1995, and never before have they been knocked out of the competition at such an early stage. Their worst showing until now was at USA 2003, when they lost to the hosts in the quarter-finals. "Right now it's difficult to know exactly why we failed in this competition," said Ronning. "We need to go home and analyse what happened. We have to be honest with ourselves and recognise that we weren't good enough."

"There are many teams that have come on leaps and bounds in women's football," added the player. "That's good, but it makes everything more difficult. The level is much higher, and now there's no such thing as an easy match or a weaker opponent. Australia are a good example. They have grown and developed a lot. All we can do now is learn from this and wish them good luck for the rest of the competition."

Norway will no doubt see Germany 2011 as a missed opportunity, but they will soon be moving on to their next challenge. "We can't let our heads drop, we have to start looking forward," said Stensland. "The good thing is that qualifying for the Women's EURO 2013 starts in a few months. So getting to Sweden is our next goal."

"It's incredibly disappointing," concluded coach Landsem, reflecting on her side's exit. "We had high hopes of going much further, especially after the first match. But we'll now go home and work even harder. We'll be back, and we'll be even stronger."

 
BRAZIL IMPRESSIVE OVER NORWAY
 
A double from Marta lifted Brazil to a hard-working win over Norway and into the quarter-finals of the FIFA Women’s World Cup™.


Norway now face Australia in the final group match with the winner joining Brazil in the last eight. The South Americans need just a point from their final outing against Equatorial Guinea to guarantee top spot.

The Group D contest at Wolfsburg’s Arena Im Allerpark failed to reach any heights in the first half, although Brazil held a one goal advantage despite a tight opening stanza. The game was effectively over as a contest within minutes of the second-half restart as Brazil bagged two goals in as many minutes through firstly Rosana, and then Marta with her second.

The contest began in disjointed fashion as both teams struggled on a slippery surface with misty rain falling throughout the match.

Norway, with Wolfsburg attacker Leni Larsen Kaurin in their line-up, enjoyed some solid crowd support, and it was they who had the first opening. Madeleine Giske found space just inside the penalty area but she hit her effort straight at Andreia.

The midway mark of the half saw the opening goal and Marta’s first of the tournament. The five-time FIFA World Player of the Year raced onto a long ball from Erika and, after taking advantage of a slip by a Norway opponent, stood up her defender before firing inside Maren Mjelde’s near post.

Norway created several dangerous moments with high balls into and around the penalty area, but no clear cut chances were to come of it.

The half ended with Brazil midfielder Rosana collecting a loose ball in midfield and thumping a first-time shot goalwards, which goalkeeper Ingrid Hjelmseth did well to push over the crossbar.

Within the opening minute of the restart Brazil doubled their advantage as Marta burst down the right flank with pace, before drawing several defenders near the penalty area and feeding a square ball to the onrushing Rosana for an impressive goal.

Two minutes later Norway turned over the ball on the edge of the penalty area, and Marta took full advantage by slipping the ball past an exposed Hjelmseth after Cristiane’s initial shot was blocked.

The goals put Norway on the back foot and opened up the contest after a tight first half.

Midway through the half Marta again burst down the left but this time her square ball was just out of the reach of Cristiane. Marta seemed destined for a hat-trick minutes later as she raced clear of the defence only to hesitate with her shot allowing Hjelmseth to save.

Brazil were content to largely sit back as Norway tried to press for goals but the Europeans struggled to create danger, aside from set-pieces.

The final ten minutes saw Norway nearly pull a goal back as Cecilie Pedersen headed a corner back across goal, but Giske scooped her shot onto the roof of the net from close range. Then substitute Elise Thorsnes had her shot deflected onto the roof of the net after yet another dangerous corner from Norway.

Player of the match: Marta

GREAT TELEVISION RATINGS
 
Television viewing figures for the FIFA Women’s World Cup Germany 2011 continues to be impressive with updated statistics for matchday seven (Saturday 2 July) further highlighting the competition’s appeal.


ESPN’s coverage in the US for USA’s 3-0 win over Colombia achieved an average audience of 1.9 million, which represents a higher figure than for any of the matches at the 2003 or 2007 editions of the FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Meanwhile in Germany, an average of 3.5m people watched live coverage of that game in Sinsheim, representing five per cent of the entire German population.

The day’s other game, Korea DPR-Sweden attracted an average audience of over 2.5 million in Germany, accounting for almost 20 per cent of all those watching television during the match.

COPA AMERICA 2011 - Prensa brasileña critica: “Menos mal que tenemos a Marta"

En Brasil criticaron duramente al "Scratch" y les recomendaron ver a la selección femenina que juega el Mundial de Alemania.

La prensa brasileña no tuvo piedad con la selección que ayer empató sin goles ante Venezuela, en su debut por la Copa América. Varios medios optaron por "agradecer" que tenían el fútbol fenemino, que les dio un triunfo por 3-0 ante Noruega, en el Mundial de Alemania 2011.

"Dónde está el show?", se pregunta en su portada el diario deportivo Lance!, con una imagen de Neymar cabizbajo, tras el empate sin goles ante Venezuela y al lado: "Ella dio un show", para referirse a Marta, mejor jugadora del mundo y figura en el Mundial femenino, con 2 tantos ante Noruega.

"Ni Neymar, ni Ganso ni Pato ni siquiera Messi. Quien jugó al fútbol fue Marta", tituló Folha de Sao Paulo, el diario más vendido del país, que colocó en su tapa fotografías de los festejos del fútbol femenino por la goleada ante Noruega.

O Globo, por su parte, tituló "Menos mal que tenemos a Marta" y afirmó que los hombres deberían haber visto a las mujeres para evitar una actuación que calificó de "ridícula".

"Los jugadores salieron del campo de juego en la ciudad de La Plata avergonzados por el 0-0 en el debut de la Copa América", escribió O Globo, que afirma que "nadie se salvó".

"Un fiasco", tituló por su parte el diario deportivo Marca de Brasil.

O Estado de Sao Paulo sostuvo que "Brasil jugó mal y apenas empató con Venezuela" y explicó que "el sistema ofensivo del técnico Mano Menezes fracasó".

 
BRAZIL annd the Women's World Cup: Two-goal Marta sparkles


There is little doubt which player the average neutral supporter most wants to see at the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup™. Marta had her own cheer squads, mostly younger fans, dotted around the Wolfsburg’s Arena Im Allerpark yesterday evening and the five-time FIFA World Player of the Year delivered in kind with two goals, amid a radiant performance in Brazil’s 3-0 victory over Norway.


After a subdued showing against Australia in the tournament opener, the 25-year-old Brazilian returned to her dazzling best, with Norway the unlucky victims. Marta scored her first of the tournament on 22 minutes after latching onto a long ball, before rounding a defender with impressive footwork and finishing comfortably from 12metres. Marta’s second, and Brazil’s third of the night, came three minutes after the break and again a deft left foot was on display as she collected a loose ball in the penalty area, before feinting and then slotted home to end the contest.

Two minutes before that goal Marta had set up team-mate Rosana with arguably her most impressive moment of the night; a searing run followed by some impressive vision in picking out her fellow Brazilian to score. There could even have been a hat-trick as Marta raced clear of the defence midway through the second period, only to hesitate with her shot allowing Norway goalkeeper Ingrid Hjelmseth to make the save.

The expectation for the Brazilian team and its game is always great.Brazil forward Marta

Marta’s speed was notable in the match on several occasions with Norwegian defenders often left in the wake of the Rio native. “I don’t know if I’m faster than 2007,” when asked had she taken her athleticism to another level since claiming the adidas Golden Ball and adidas Golden Shoe at the FIFA Women’s World Cup four years ago in China. “I hope I can hold my speed in the next games. I just try to give my all and I hope I can keep up my performance.

“I think Brazil played a great match, and we played better today than in the first game. The defensive players did a very important role. They did not let the players from Norway in, and connected with our attackers as fast as possible. Now we are in a more comfortable place for the second stage. The expectation for the Brazilian team and its game is always great.”

The final word goes to Brazil coach Kleiton Lima who was effusive in his praise of his side’s superstar No10. “Thank god Marta is Brazilian,” said a smiling Lima after the match. “Thank god she is part of our squad. She is down to earth and humble and yet she is a genius. Marta is modest off the pitch, is very close to all her team-mates, and she has a good relationship with the younger players.”

A double from Marta lifted Brazil to a hard-working win over Norway and into the quarter-finals of the FIFA Women’s World Cup™.

Norway now face Australia in the final group match with the winner joining Brazil in the last eight. The South Americans need just a point from their final outing against Equatorial Guinea to guarantee top spot.

The Group D contest at Wolfsburg’s Arena Im Allerpark failed to reach any heights in the first half, although Brazil held a one goal advantage despite a tight opening stanza. The game was effectively over as a contest within minutes of the second-half restart as Brazil bagged two goals in as many minutes through firstly Rosana, and then Marta with her second.

The contest began in disjointed fashion as both teams struggled on a slippery surface with misty rain falling throughout the match.

Norway, with Wolfsburg attacker Leni Larsen Kaurin in their line-up, enjoyed some solid crowd support, and it was they who had the first opening. Madeleine Giske found space just inside the penalty area but she hit her effort straight at Andreia.

The midway mark of the half saw the opening goal and Marta’s first of the tournament. The five-time FIFA World Player of the Year raced onto a long ball from Erika and, after taking advantage of a slip by a Norway opponent, stood up her defender before firing inside Maren Mjelde’s near post.

Norway created several dangerous moments with high balls into and around the penalty area, but no clear cut chances were to come of it.

The half ended with Brazil midfielder Rosana collecting a loose ball in midfield and thumping a first-time shot goalwards, which goalkeeper Ingrid Hjelmseth did well to push over the crossbar.

Within the opening minute of the restart Brazil doubled their advantage as Marta burst down the right flank with pace, before drawing several defenders near the penalty area and feeding a square ball to the onrushing Rosana for an impressive goal.

Two minutes later Norway turned over the ball on the edge of the penalty area, and Marta took full advantage by slipping the ball past an exposed Hjelmseth after Cristiane’s initial shot was blocked.

The goals put Norway on the back foot and opened up the contest after a tight first half.

Midway through the half Marta again burst down the left but this time her square ball was just out of the reach of Cristiane. Marta seemed destined for a hat-trick minutes later as she raced clear of the defence only to hesitate with her shot allowing Hjelmseth to save.

Brazil were content to largely sit back as Norway tried to press for goals but the Europeans struggled to create danger, aside from set-pieces.

The final ten minutes saw Norway nearly pull a goal back as Cecilie Pedersen headed a corner back across goal, but Giske scooped her shot onto the roof of the net from close range. Then substitute Elise Thorsnes had her shot deflected onto the roof of the net after yet another dangerous corner from Norway.

Player of the match: Marta

WOMEN'S SOCCER WORLD CUP: Brazilian superstar shines: 3-0 over Norway

THE DAY REPLAYED – This was the day the gifted Brazilians emphatically stated their intention of going all the way at the FIFA Women's World Cup 2011™. In the second round of Group C matches, the South Americans cruised to a 3–0 victory over Norway, making it two wins out of two and sealing their quarter-final berth. In front of a capacity crowd in Wolfsburg, Brazil took a first-half lead through a sublime effort from FIFA Women's World Player of the Year Marta. The goal took the wind out of Norway's sails and A Seleção proceeded to produce some exhibition football. Marta was at the centre of everything good, rounding off the scoring shortly after Rosana had doubled the advantage.


In the day's first game, Australia scrapped to a 3–2 victory over newcomers Equatorial Guinea thanks to a much improved second-half display. Leena Khamis and Anonman traded goals in the first half to make the score 1–1 at the interval. Second-half sub Lisa De Vanna injected a new sense of urgency into the Matildas’ play and scored their third goal, shortly after Emily Van Egmond had restored her side's lead. African heads went down for a spell and the Matildas looked dangerous whenever they went forward, but a touch of sloppiness in front of goal meant the game remained poised, especially after Anonman pulled one back towards the end. However, coach Marcello Frigerio’s side were unable to conjure up the chance that might have led to an equaliser.

Brazil now require a single point from their final group match against Equatorial Guinea to finish top of the section. In the parallel fixture, Australia and Norway go to the mat for second spot, with the Africans already out of contention.


Goal of the day

Brazil-Norway, Marta (22nd minute)

Brazil superstar Marta showed just why she has been named FIFA World Player of the Year five times on the bounce with a terrific strike to open her account for the tournament. With 22 minutes on the clock, she powered into the box and left defender Maren Mjelde for dead with two step-overs, before sliding the ball past keeper Ingrid Hjelmseth’s left hand.


Memorable moments

The colours of the rainbow

Equatorial Guinea midfielder Anonman literally stood out today, not only because of the striker's instincts which brought her a brace against Australia, but also due to her extraordinary hairstyle, plaited into cornrows and an authentic work of art in itself. She favoured green highlights at the start of the tournament, but three streaks of bright red shone out today, colour-coordinated with the Guineans’ shirts. Anonman was not the only individual adding colour to today's spectacle, as her team-mates played their part with boots in orange, yellow, blue, green, white and red.





Samba rhythms and a true gentleman

Despite pouring rain and autumnal rather than summer temperatures, the Brazilians brought South American flair to Wolfsburg. Marta and Co headed for the dressing room afterwards in high spirits. Dancing to the rhythm of drums, they carried their upbeat message right into the mixed zone. Brazil coach Kleiton Lima, meanwhile, showed the bearing and manners of a true gentleman, shaking hands with the Volunteers prior to kick-off, and greeting some of the ladies present with a kiss on the hand.





On a par with Michelle Akers

Marta's two-goal haul means she is now level with Michelle Akers in the FIFA Women's World Cup all-time goalscoring chart. She and the iconic American lie second on 12 goals apiece, behind only Germany's 14-goal striker Birgit Prinz. Marta is also fast developing into Norway's worst nightmare, as she has three goals against the Scandinavians at the tournament, more than against any other opponents.





The stat

4 – Lisa De Vanna has now scored four times after coming on as a sub at the FIFA Women's World Cup, making the Australian the top scoring substitute in tournament history. She scored three at China 2007 and added her fourth today.





The quote

Thank god Marta is Brazilian. Thank god she is part of our squad. She is down to earth and humble and yet she is a genius,” Brazil coach Kleiton Lima





Next up

Tuesday 5 July

England-Japan, Augsburg, 6.15 pm CET

New Zealand-Mexico, Sinsheim, 6.15 pm CET

Germany-France, Monchengladbach, 8.45 CET

Canada-Nigeria, Dresden, 8.45 CET



Have your say

Marta contributed two goals and was the outstanding performer in Brazil's comfortable victory over Norway. The FIFA World Player of the Year is now the joint second-highest scorer in the history of the tournament, behind only German legend Prinz. Is Marta destined to overtake the home hero in the next two weeks?