The Brazilian National Team defeated Nigeria 1-0 on Thursday (25) in Bordeaux, in their debut at the Olympic tournament of the Paris Games. The team, led by Arthur Elias, played securely and overcame the African side.
UNBEATEN IN OPENERS
The victory in Bordeaux ensured Brazil’s unbeaten record in Olympic openers. Brazil now has six wins and two draws. The Women’s National Team has participated in all editions of the Olympic tournament, which began at the Atlanta Games in 1996. This was also the third victory for the Brazilians against the Nigerians, who remain without a win against the National Team.
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GABI NUNES SCORED THE FIRST
The winning goal was scored by Gabi Nunes in the 36th minute of the first half. She received a beautiful pass from Marta, who surprised the Nigerian defenders. Gabi Nunes received the ball at the edge of the area, advanced, and took a beautiful shot that surpassed the goalkeeper.
DISALLOWED GOAL
In the previous play, Marta had found the net, but the goal was disallowed by referee Yu-jeong Kim. She called offside on Gabi Portilho at the start of the play. Minutes earlier, defender Tamires was substituted by Yasmim. The Corinthians defender complained of pain.
PENALTY?
Before the end of the first half, in the 46th minute, the Korean referee did not award a penalty after Echegini deflected Gabi Portilho’s shot for a corner. The game was paused for three minutes to be reviewed by the video assistant referee, who did not point out the foul.
TEAM CHANGES
In the 16th minute of the second half, Arthur Elias made two more substitutions. He brought in Ana Vitória and Jheniffer to replace, respectively, Vitória Yaya and Ludmila. Near the end, in the 38th minute, the coach made another change. Kerolyn came on for Gabi Nunes. This was her first match after recovering from a serious knee injury sustained nine months ago.
NEXT OPPONENT
With the result in Bordeaux, the National Team has three points and is at the top of the group alongside Spain. Shortly before Brazil’s game, the current champions came from behind to defeat Japan 2-1 in Nantes. Brazil’s next opponent will be Japan on Sunday in Paris.
