Brazil advanced to the quarterfinals of the FIFA Women's U-20 World Cup on Wednesday, eliminating the United States in a penalty shootout at Arena Katowice in Poland.
The match ended 1-1 after 90 minutes of regular play. Brazil opened the scoring in the 13th minute of the second half when Sofia Couto headed in a goal following a set-piece delivery from Clarinha. The United States equalized four minutes later when McCammon scored from outside the area with a shot that deflected off the Brazilian defense.
The teams remained deadlocked through 30 minutes of extra time, forcing a penalty shootout. Brazil converted all five of its penalty attempts, with Brendha, Gisele, Emily Lucas, Aninha, and Bianca scoring. Goalkeeper Thaís Lima, 18 years old, made a crucial save on one of the American penalties to secure the 5-4 victory.
Brazil's first half was difficult, with few attacking opportunities. The United States created more chances but could not break through the Brazilian defense. The match shifted in Brazil's favor after halftime, with the team, managed by Camila Orlando, taking control of the tempo and generating more scoring opportunities.
After the match, Thaís Lima spoke about the victory. "I am trembling, it is very great emotion. It was deserved, we gave everything, it was a battle, but we knew how to suffer. This penalty is for everybody, for all of Brazil. I don't even know what to say, I am speechless," she said.
Brazil will face the winner of the Spain versus Portugal match in the quarterfinals.