Brazil’s Samba Queens got their bid for a first women’s World Cup title off to a winning start here on Wednesday with a 1-0 victory over Australia in their Group D opener. A second half goal from midfielder Rosana secured all three points for the Brazilians who are bidding for their first title after being runners-up four years ago to Germany in China. “It was frustrating but I think we achieved a lot today. We nearly did something there,” said Australia coach Tom Sermanni.
“We were up against one of the tournament favourites with some quality players. I’m disappointed but very proud of the effort and the performance. We just need to focus on the next game now.” The goal brightened spirits at the Borussia Park stadium after days of sunshine in western Germany had given way to chilly conditions. And the much-anticipated clash had failed to warm the crowd early on with Brazil superstar Marta far from her inspirational form in a drab first half which saw the young Matildas prove more than a match for the world number three team.
Collette McCallum missed Australia’s first chance after six minutes when she sent a freekick, awarded following a Daiane foul on Lisa De Vanna, over the bar. And Kyah Simon could have opened the scoring after 23 minutes but for a tremendous save from veteran Brazil goalie Andreia.
Three minutes later Rosana lost control of the ball and sent her effort flying over the bar with Cristiane also seeing her chance off target.
Brazil came out firing after the break with Rosana finally lifting spirits as she took advantage of some confusion in front of the Australian goal to pick up a short pass from Cristiane after 54 minutes to fire past Melissa Barbieri.
Earlier, Norway survived a battle with debutantes Equatorial Guinea in Group D action at the Women’s World Cup here on Wednesday, winning 1-0 thanks to Emelie Haavi’s late goal.
