Brazil beats Puerto Rico in Copa Ouro debut

Gabi Nunes scored the winning goal for the national team in the first official competition under the command of Arthur Elias; the Seleção will face Colombia on Sunday (25)

Josué Seixas

2024-02-22 14:58:04

Image Credits: © (Leandro Lopes/CBF)

The Brazilian national team won in their debut at the Gold Cup. Brazil defeated Puerto Rico 1-0 early Thursday morning (22) in San Diego, California. This competition marks the team’s first under the leadership of coach Arthur Elias. Puerto Rico’s goalkeeper, Martinez, was elected the best player of the match for her eight saves.

Substitute appearance

The winning goal was scored by Gabi Nunes at the 35th minute of the second half. She took advantage of Adriana’s cross and scored the only goal of the match. Ten minutes earlier, she had come on as a substitute for Bia Zaneratto.

New faces

In their debut at the Gold Cup, coach Arthur Elias gave opportunities to new players. Left-back Bia Menezes started as a regular. Julia Bianchi was also another new addition.

First half

Brazil performed better in the first half and played offensively. The Brazilian players managed to score a goal with Ary Borges, but it was disallowed by the American referee. Before the end of the half, Debinha hit the post in the final play.

Second half

The team continued to be aggressive in the second half but failed to score the winning goal. At 18 minutes, Arthur Elias made changes to the team. He brought in Antônia and Yasmin for Lauren and Bia, respectively. Brazil was still dominating, but Puerto Rico’s goalkeeper Martinez held on for a draw.

At 25 minutes, the coach made two more substitutions. Geyse and Gabi Nunes came on for Ary Borges and Bia Zaneratto. The goal came shortly after. At 35 minutes, Gabi Nunes opened the scoring. She took advantage of Adriana’s cross and scored the first goal of the match. The last change in the team was Aline Gomes coming on for Adriana.