The Young Matildas have it all to play for in their final group game after going down to Brazil 2-0 at the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup.
Torrential rain in Costa Rica wreaked havoc. With puddles forming on the surface and the ball holding up due to the deluge, the match was delayed for over an hour due to the conditions with play pausing in the 28th minute.
Prior to the rain delay, Brazil managed to find the opener through some neat build-up play. A cut into the box was pulled back for Priscila. While her first attempt was blocked, her second one was struck truly.
Throughout the first part of the match, Brazil had created plenty of opportunities with the Young Matildas’ defence being asked plenty of questions.
The back four of Kirsty Fenton, Naomi Chinnama, Ella Tonkin, and Jamilla Rankin held up to this questioning through smart positioning and timely interventions.
However, the entire Australian defensive unit was under plenty of pressure with the Brazilian chances coming thick and fast, and Australia struggling to muster any chances of their own.
Goalkeeper Sally James was also asked to do plenty but held her own time and time again. Once play resumed following the rain and lightning delay, Brazil kicked it up another level with quick and slick ball movement.
James was kept busy with efforts from Tarciane and Dudinha at the near post, as well as a particularly tricky corner but Australia saw out the half only a goal down.
Charlize Rule entered the second stanza in place of Kahli Johnson but it was Brazil who had the stellar opening to the second half.
The ball trickled its way across the top of the D and into the path of Aline who dispatched it coolly to double the lead. The goal appeared to be ruled out but a five-minute VAR intervention saw the goal stand and Brazil go two goals to the good.
Australia began to find some more sustained possession in their attacking half as the game progressed with Bryleeh Henry often the outlet down the right-hand flank and Sarah Hunter pushing forward.
The introduction of the likes of Abbey Lemon, Cushla Rue and Paige Zois added more attacking impetus but Australia couldn’t find a goal to get back into the match.
Attention now turns to the Young Matildas’ final Group A match against Spain.
Next Match
Australia v Spain
Date: Tuesday, 16 August 2022 (local)/ Wednesday, 17 August 2022
Venue: Morera Soto, Alajuela
Kick-Off: 8:00 pm CST (local)/ 12:00pm AEST
Broadcast: SBS Australia
