Legendary Brazil international Marta will miss the Olympics semi-final after receiving a potentially tournament-ending red card against Spain.
This summer’s Paris Olympic Games may be the 38-year-old’s final tournament for Brazil, and it could end disastrously.
Marta saw red for a reckless challenge on Spain’s Olga Carmona in the group stage, and her subsequent ban means she’s set to miss the semi-final reunion of these two footballing nations after sitting out her country’s narrow win over hosts France in the quarters, according to The Athletic.
The Brazil star broke down in tears as she exited the pitch against Spain, and she’ll be praying that her team-mates can do the job in the semi-finals.
Whatever happens, Marta has one more game to play at the Olympics- either in the gold or bronze medal match depending on the result against the world champions – but her international future beyond that is uncertain.
The 38-year-old has been banned for two games instead of one because the offence was deemed to be “serious foul play” by FIFA, which carries a harsher punishment.
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However, if Brazil are victorious in the semi-finals, Marta will have an opportunity to potentially end her international career with an Olympic gold medal.
Also, the Orlando Pride player has had an incredible stint at the top of the women’s game, winning the UEFA Cup and numerous domestic titles at club level, as well as playing at a record six World Cups and becoming the tournament’s all-time record goal-scorer with 17 strikes.
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