Photo: FIFA

By MdeG

Brazil underscored its status as the world’s premier women’s futsal team after securing a 3-0 victory over Portugal in the inaugural FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup Final, Sunday night at a sold-out PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.

The result capped a historic campaign for the Brazilian side that has long dominated South America with eight Copa América titles, and after sweeping the tournament, have been crowned the first-ever FIFA Futsal World Cup winners.

"It's amazing to be crowned with an unprecedented and historic title for the Brazilian National Team. It's a great feeling, I'm very happy. My family, Bruna, the athletes, everything that happened in these 52 days," said Brazil head coach Wilson Saboia after the match.

"I miss everyone, but it was worth it. These athletes are amazing. It's a very big legacy for us."

However, Brazil had to grind it out for the win, going close in the fifth minute after Natalinha broke through the defense, but her effort was denied by Ana Catarina. The rebound fell to Luana Rodrigues, whose follow-up attempt was also stopped by the Portuguese goalkeeper.

Portugal’s resistance finally broke in the 10th minute. Emilly pounced on Ana Luiza’s cutback inside the area and steered the ball into the bottom corner to give Brazil the lead. Portugal came close to equalizing in the 14th minute, with Ana Azevedo beating Bianca on her initial attempt, but the Brazilian goalkeeper recovered quickly to block her second shot.

Amandinha doubled Brazil’s advantage in the 23rd minute. Simone’s cross was parried into a dangerous area, and the veteran midfielder reacted quickest, calmly chipping the ball into the net for 2–0. Brazil added the finishing touch in the 39th minute when Debora Vanin found the back of an open goal to seal the victory and, with it, a historic World Cup triumph.

Emilly was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player and finished as the top goalscorer with seven goals.

"After so much training, I know how intense it was, but in the preparation since I started wearing the Brazilian national team jersey. I believe that God helped us, gave us strength, gave us an opportunity to win the World Cup," said Emily.

Spain’s Irene Córdoba and Portugal’s Moreira took home the Silver and Bronze Boot awards, respectively, for their scoring performances. Brazil’s Debora Vanin and Portugal’s Moreira were also recognized with the Silver and Bronze Ball honors to cap off a memorable World Cup campaign.

—JMS, Alta Sports