Spain Continues Winning Streak In Olympics Group C As Marta Faces Possible Final Exit

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Marta left the field in tears after being sent off for a dangerous high tackle during Brazil's 2-0 defeat to Spain in their final Group C game at the Olympics. The Brazil great narrowly missed Olga Carmona's head with an out-of-control attempt to reach the ball in first-half stoppage time, receiving a straight red card in what could turn out to be her final-ever Olympic game.

Brazil needed a win to secure a place in the knockout rounds, but now face a nervous wait to see if they will be one of the two best third-place teams in the last eight—a match they would have to play without their captain. Athenea del Castillo eventually got the breakthrough after 68 minutes, before Alexia Putellas scored in the 107th minute to ensure they stayed perfect to top the group.

It was a dominant performance by La Roja, who created an expected goals tally of 2.75 from 27 shots compared to Brazil's 0.3 from 10 efforts. Spain will face the best third-place team from either Group A or B in the quarter-final on Saturday.

Three wins from three so far at the @Olympics for the #FIFAWWC Champions! pic.twitter.com/GNL9yzFaQA
FIFA Women's World Cup (@FIFAWWC) July 31, 2024

Meanwhile, Japan also secured a spot in the knockout rounds with an emphatic 3-1 victory over Nigeria. Japan stunned Brazil in the second group game and continued their momentum by getting the job done in the first half. Maika Hamano and Mina Tanaka put them 2-0 up before Jennifer Echegini pulled one back for Nigeria.

However, Hikaru Kitagawa's strike just before the break restored Japan's two-goal cushion and held onto that lead to set up a meeting with the winners of Group B in the next round.

That quarter-final feeling. #Paris2024 pic.twitter.com/pvs50Mr3PJ
FIFA Women's World Cup (@FIFAWWC) July 31, 2024

The match saw Marta leaving under emotional circumstances after her red card incident. This could potentially mark her last appearance at an Olympic event. Brazil now anxiously awaits results to determine if they advance as one of the top third-place teams.

Spain showcased their prowess with a commanding display against Brazil, securing their position at the top of Group C. Their offensive strength was evident through numerous attempts on goal, significantly outmatching Brazil’s efforts.

Japan’s victory over Nigeria ensured their progression into the knockout stages. Their early goals set a strong foundation, which was solidified by Kitagawa’s timely strike before halftime. This win sets them up for a challenging quarter-final against Group B’s winners.

The anticipation builds as both Spain and Japan prepare for their upcoming matches, each aiming to continue their successful runs in this Olympic tournament.