Brazil’s all-time top scorer, Marta, urged her team to move on from their stoppage-time loss to Japan, which saw them miss a chance to secure a quarter-final spot in the women’s Olympic football tournament, marring her 200th international cap.
The six-time Olympian left the pitch to a standing ovation six minutes from time at Parc des Princes. She then had to watch as her team conceded two goals in the final minutes of their Group C clash on Sunday. Brazil had taken the lead with a fine low shot by Jheniffer in the 56th minute following a play created by Marta. However, Japan’s Saki Kumagai and Momoko Tanikawa scored late goals.
“All that mattered to Japan was winning the game. We took our eye off the ball, and that has obviously ended up costing us,” said Marta, who is retiring from international football this year. “We could have been here celebrating a win, but instead we have to remain focused. But it’s not over yet. We have to give it everything as a group. That is football. Anything can happen. Nothing has been decided.”
The 38-year-old noted that Brazil, two-time Olympic silver medallists, could not have chosen tougher opponents as they seek a place in the next round against world champions Spain in their last group-stage fixture on Wednesday.
The top two teams in each of the three groups advance, along with the two best third-placed sides.
Brazilian coach Arthur Elias echoed Marta’s sentiments and asked his players to reflect on the painful defeat.
“I need to make amends, I need to tell the players the truth, no matter if it hurts,” he said. “They obviously need to reflect. But I really recognize the effort of each and every one of them.”
“We are going to play to beat Spain. I think we have the potential to beat any team.”
Also Read Latest Sports News, Tajikistani Judoka Faces ‘Instant Karma’ After Refusing Handshake with Israeli Opponent
Paris Olympics Cancel Triathlon Swim Training Due to Poor Seine Water Quality
Matt Olson’s Home Runs Lead Braves to Victory Over Mets Amid Injury Concerns
