Olympic 2024: Brazil Stun Spain, USA Beat Germany To Reach Women’s Football Final
Brazil produced an epic performance to upset Spain 4-2 in a thrilling Women’s Olympic Football Tournament semi-final, while Sophia Smith fired USA past Germany.
Brazil produced a scintillating display to stun Spain and book a Women's Olympic Football Tournament final showdown with USA.
A Seleção overwhelmed the world champions in Marseille, with the 4-2 scoreline a fair reflection of their superiority. Brazil got off to a dream start when Spain goalkeeper Cata Coll's clearance hit Irene Paredes and went in for an own-goal. Gabi Portilho doubled their lead, before Adriana added a third for the rampant South Americans.
Salma Paralluelo pulled one back for La Roja late on, only for Kerolin to restore the three-goal advantage. Paralluelo got her and Spain's second, but it couldn't prevent one of the greatest results in Brazil's history.
Sophia Smith was the heroine as USA sunk Germany in extra-time in their semi-final. The 23-year-old Coloradan, who bagged a brace in a 4-1 thrashing of the same side in the group stage, scored the only goal of a much sterner examination in Lyon.
USA will have a shot at a record-extending fifth gold at the Parc des Princes on Saturday. Brazil, who will have Marta available after suspension, will be eyeing their maiden Olympic triumph. Spain and Germany, meanwhile, will battle for bronze in Lyon on Friday.