What to Expect From Brazil
Brazil
No one expected Brazil to make it to this stage. In the group stage, they underwhelmed, winning only one game and looking disjointed in their loss to Spain. Adding to the long road ahead, they lost Marta to a red card suspension for their Quarterfinal and Semifinal matches.
They persevered, though, beating the hosts 1-0, with Gabi Portilho scoring the winner. She scored again in their 4-2 demolishing of Spain in their rematch, beating one of the favorites to win Gold. As Canarinhas are growing into the tournament, they are playing their best, and they get their talisman back for the finals.
Brazil is the underdog, but they cannot be overlooked. The blueprint against the U.S. will be similar to that against Spain. If Brazil defends well and beats them on the break, it will win its first Gold medal.
