Brazil exited the World Cup on Wednesday, with hopes that a new generation of talent will emerge as Marta’s (37) sixth and final Women’s World Cup came to an end in a 0-0 draw against Jamaica, which sent the Caribbean side to the last 16.
Marta, affectionately known as “Queen Marta” in football-mad Brazil, had her teammates vowing for a more fitting farewell for the iconic forward. However, they were unable to break through the Jamaican defense at Melbourne Rectangular Stadium.
Despite being the tournament’s all-time leading scorer with 17 goals, Marta may have been the most frustrated player on the field, as she had opportunities in a match where Brazil needed three points.
Starting on the field for the first time in the tournament, her teammates managed to find her in the area several times, but she couldn’t summon the magical touch she had exhibited in five previous World Cups.
As Jamaica held their ground in defense, Marta’s energy waned, and she was substituted off in the 80th minute to the cheers of anxious Brazilian fans.
Having collected nearly every individual accolade in women’s football, Marta missed out on the World Cup victory she had longed for, extending Brazil’s wait for their first title.
With the team failing to advance from the group stage for the first time in 28 years, concerns will arise regarding their preparations and tactics under the guidance of coach Pia Sundhage (63).
Although contracted for another year, Sundhage admitted that her future with the team might be uncertain. The Swedish coach was direct about Brazil’s need for rejuvenation, a process that will likely proceed without the player who has dominated women’s football in the country for decades.
Sundhage acknowledged that she doesn’t know if Marta intends to continue playing for the national team, but she suspects that Marta’s love for the game might influence her decision to do so.
“Whether she’s good enough to be called up to the national team, let’s see,” said Sundhage.
“As long as I am coaching the national team, I am going to do a lot of work to find new players.
“That means it’s going to be harder for Marta to play going forward.“