Brazil Blow Spain Away in Olympic Semifinal: Brazil 4 – 2 Spain

Brazil beat Spain 4 – 2 to reach the final of the Olympic Women’s Football tournament, where they will face the US.

Despite Spain failing to reach their usual high standards during this tournament, the World Cup winners still entered the semifinal encounter with Brazil as favourites. Spain had struggled for goals in the Olympics and the team selection was a bone of contention, with Barcelona stars Patri Guijarro and Alexia Putellas dropping the bench.

Spanish errors gift Brazil opening goal

A catalogue of defensive and goalkeeper errors could be attributed to the scoreline but in reality, Brazil were outplayed across the pitch for large sections of the game. Priscila proved to be a constant menace down the right flank and the Spanish defence were at odds trying to thwart a determined Brazil side.

Marta was serving the second match of her ban for the red card in the group stage match between the two sides. In the end, they didn’t need the 6 times FIFA World Player of the Year. The new generation of Brazilians showed they are more than ready to fill her boots when she retires. Now she gets the chance to win gold at the Olympics with a minimum of silver already guaranteed.

Spain’s head coach Montse Tome received criticism from the media for her approach to team selection and substitutions. Many Spain fans called for Jenni Hermoso to be brought into the starting line-up, which was granted but at the expense of Alexia Putellas.

A poor clearance from the mask wearing Cata Coll gifted Brazil their opening goal. However, it would be wrong to say that Brazil got lucky in this game, they created more chances than Spain and looked the bigger threat throughout. Just before the half-time whistle, Portilho snatched a second goal to put Brazil 2-0 up going into the break.

Spain team selection criticised

Spain brought Hernandez and Castillo on at half-time but still Spain could not carve out any clear cut chances. By the time Alexia Putellas was introduced on 77 minutes, Spain were 3-0 down with a mountain to climb. Putellas quickly showcased what she brings to the team, executing some excellent passes and a shot that the Brazil goalkeeper palmed onto the bar. Spain’s pressure led to a Sampaio own goal but with 85 minutes on the clock, time was running out for Spain.

There was hope when 15 minutes of additional time were announced but the hope was momentary, as Kerolin compounded Spain’s misery with a fourth goal for Brazil. A late consolation goal on 90+12 was too little too late.

Spain will now play Germany for the bronze, whilst the United States await Brazil and Marta for the gold.

Brazil 4 – 2 Spain