Women's World Cup 2019: Australia pull off sensational comeback to stun Brazil
Marta, 33, became the first player to score at five different World Cups but it was in vain
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Australia came from two goals down to defeat Brazil 3-2 in the women’s World Cup on Thursday, as an own goal from Monica capped a superb fightback and overshadowed a milestone goal for Marta.
Marta, 33, became the first player to score at five different World Cups as she put Brazil ahead from the penalty spot with a record-extending 16th World Cup goal before Cristiane doubled the lead.
Australia’s Caitlin Foord reduced the arrears on the stroke of half-time before Chloe Logarzo equalised and Monica then headed past her own keeper, with the goal given after a VAR review, to hand Australia all three points.
Brazil and Australia both have three points in Group C as do Italy, who take on Jamaica on Friday after beating the Matildas in their opening match.
“Tonight is one of the finest Australian performances I’ve seen. The players deserve all the rewards they were given tonight. I’m really delighted for them,” said Australia coach Ante Milicic.
“They never stopped believing, and the coaching staff never stopped believing. We kept on believing in our style and in our football and it’s an Australian performance to be proud of.”
Marta opened the scoring after 27 minutes, converting from the spot after Leticia Santos was fouled by Elise Kellond-Knight. Marta had already scored at the 2003, 2007, 2011 and 2015 World Cups.
“It would feel much better with a win,” she said. “It’s one more detail written in the history of women’s football. I am honoured, but there’s more to do at this tournament.”
Cristiane netted her fourth goal at these finals with a 38th-minute header to double Brazil’s tally but Foord gave Australia hope with a close-range finish.
Marta, who missed the opening game against Jamaica through injury, was replaced for the second half as coach Vadao looked to rest her, but the decision backfired as Brazil lost control.
Logarzo equalised with a long-range shot in the 58th minute, eight minutes before Monica’s own goal was confirmed by VAR.
Reuters
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
0Comments