A LACKLUSTRE Brazil side edged plucky Australia in the final match of the opening round of the Women’s World Cup.
Australia started the brighter side, dominating possession and crafting themselves a number of good chances.
They should have taken the lead when Brazil’s captain Aline was dispossessed on the edge of the penalty area. Lisa De Vanna attempted to curl the ball around the goalkeeper but the shot was weak and it sailed wide.
They were also handed another good chance when Brazil’s second defensive mix-up resulted in Kyah Simon being sent through clean on goal. The striker’s left-footed shot was excellently saved by the flying Andreia in goal.
The South Americans should have also had a goal deep into the first half. Maurine took advantage of some hesitant defending and crossed to Cristiane who somehow managed to scoop her shot over the crossbar from four yards.
The Brazilian’s were the better side throughout the duration of the second half, controlling play with some smart passing moves. They controlled the pace of the match but their final pass was often poor which stopped them from taking the lead.
Australia tried to get back in the game and pushed forward in an attempt to rush the Brazilians into a mistake. This ultimately proved to be there downfall as the South Americans went on to score a wonderful goal.
Cristiane and Rosana combined well on the edge of the Australian penalty area. Cristiane managed to fend off the challenge of a number of defenders before heading to Rosana whose neat flick over Carroll’s leg created the space to neatly volley into the net. Melissa Berbieri in the Australian net was given no chance at all with the strike.
The surprisingly poor Marta nearly made it 2-0 with three minutes to go as Cristiane whipped in a ball from the right flank towards the onrushing five-time World Player-of-the-Year. Fortunately for the Aussies, Marta lacked that bit of pace and was unable to get her foot on the ball.
Australia continued to battle for an equaliser but came up short against the former World Cup finalists. However, the South Americans will need to improve vastly if they are to win their first World Cup. (Eurosport)