Group C continues to be one of the more intriguing groups at the Women’s World Cup and yesterday, Australia and Brazil added another wrinkle to the tale. Brazil went up by two goals in the first half only to be pegged back by Australia and ultimately losing their first group match at this year’s tournament.

Debinha was the only North Carolina Courage player involved and although played throughout the match, was not as influential as she had been in the game against Jamaica.

Debinha helps Brazil grab a second goal

After Marta had put Brazil ahead from the penalty spot, Debinha took center stage for the second goal which came in the 38th minute. Tamires nutmegged her defender before picking out Debinha who had made a great run down the flank. The Courage forward took a quick look up before placing a one-time cross right into the box which was met powerfully by Cristiane in the air. Brazil enjoyed the majority of the play in the first half but gave up a late goal as half-time approached which ultimately led to the loss.

Debinha was still active in the second half as Brazil tried to curb the oncoming Australian comeback but their opponents had adjusted to her runs and did not give her as much space as she had found in the first half. Debinha and Tamires did combine well during a play in the second half that saw a double nutmeg by the Brazilians but it did not lead to the goal the build up had deserved.

There is still a chance for Brazil to top Group C

Brazil’s World Cup campaign is still going strong as despite losing to Australia, they are currently second in Group C due to goal difference. They have one more game left against group leaders Italy and if they can defeat the Italians, they will top Group C and qualify for the Round of 16. A draw will be enough too if Australia cannot make up the goal difference but Debinha and her teammates will not want to take that chance.

Italy have shown plenty of attacking flair and nous during their two group games, so Brazil will have to put in a better performance than they showed in the second half against Australia. If they do not, they will be left hoping that Jamaica pull off an upset and defeat Australia, thus leaving Brazil the only team able to finish in second.