Share

Brazil down Aussie girls

Moenchengladbach - Brazil's Samba Queens got their bid for a first women's World Cup title off to a winning start here on Wednesday with a 1-0 victory over Australia in their Group D opener.

A second half goal from midfielder Rosana secured all three points for the Brazilians who are bidding for their first title after being runners-up four years ago to Germany in China.

The goal brightened spirits at the Borussia Park stadium after days of sunshine in western Germany had given way to chilly conditions.

And the much-anticipated clash had failed to warm the crowd early on with Brazil superstar Marta far from her inspirational form in a drab first half which saw the young Matildas prove more than a match for the world No 3 team.

Collette McCallum missed Australia's first chance after six minutes when she sent a freekick, awarded following a Daiane foul on Lisa De Vanna, over the bar.

And Kyah Simon could have opened after 23 minutes but for a tremendous save from veteran Brazil goalie Andreia.

Three minutes later Rosana lost control of the ball and sent her effort flying over the bar with Cristiane also seeing her chance off target.

Brazil came out firing after the break with Rosana finally lifting spirits as she took advantage of some confusion on front of the Australian goal to pick up a short pass from Cristiane after 54 minutes to fire past Melissa Barbieri.

The momentum swung Australia's way in the final 15 minutes but efforts from Tameka Butt and Heather Garriock were held by Santos goalie Andreia.

Lisa De Vanna missed Australia's last chance for a point when she broke free three minutes from time but saw her effort miss the target.

The victory gives Brazil a 6-3 record over Australia.

The five-time South American champions are bidding for their first major title having settled for silver at the last World Cup and the last two Olympic Games.

Australia reached a career-best quarter-final four years ago where they fell 3-2 to the Brazilians.

Brazil next play former champions Norway who earlier beat Equatorial Guinea 1-0 in Augsburg while Australia will take on the Africans debutantes on July 3.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1470 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2249 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE