Qualification for the last-16 of the Women’s World Cup was expected to be straightforward for Brazil, but now nothing but a win over Jamaica will do on Wednesday.
The Copa America holders were rocked by a 2-1 defeat to France in their second Group F match and with Jamaica having already held Les Bleues to a goalless draw, the Islanders know a draw would be enough for them to move through to the second round at Brazil’s expense.
So, there is plenty to play for when they meet in their final group match at the Melbourne Rectangular Stadium.
Team news
Jamaica gained a 1-0 win over Panama in their last game despite being without star striker Kadija Shaw.
The Manchester City forward was sent off in their opening game against France, but she will be available for their crucial clash against Brazil.
Her reintroduction is likely to be the only change for the Reggae Girlz, while Brazil have no fresh injury concerns after their 2-1 defeat to France and look set to be unchanged for Wednesday’s match in Melbourne.
Under 2.5 goals @ 11/10
The pressure is on for Brazil to gain a vital three points, but while they are 1/6 to get the win they need to go through, they could meet some stubborn Jamaican resistance.
Canarihas eased past Panama in their opening game. but this has great potential to be a nervy affair as we can expect Jamaica to sit back.
That tactic worked well against France, where they had just 29 per cent of possession in the game and it should not be forgotten that a draw would suit the Caribbean outfit perfectly.
So, it may take a while for Brazil to break through and, as Jamaica have created few opportunities in their opening two matches, there may not be that many chances, despite Shaw’s excellent record of 55 goals in 39 international matches.
Debinha first goalscorer @ 10/3
Ary Borges helped herself to a hat-trick for Brazil in their opening game against Panama, but it could be Debinha who sets them on their way in Melbourne.
The striker should have gained plenty of confidence from finding the net in the defeat to France and she had come into the tournament in good form.
She had scored four goals in her final three National Women’s Soccer League matches for Kansas City Current, so she has the recent pedigree to suggest she can be Brazil’s greatest goal threat in a match they have to win.
Share Article
