Women’s Soccer Defeats Brazil

Canada earned a notable 2-1 win over Brazil in a women’s international friendly courtesy of a pair of goals by Vancouver Whitecaps FC alum Christine Sinclair at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, Massachusetts.

Six former ‘Caps started for Canada, including defenders Emily Zurrer and Candace Chapman; midfielders Desiree Scott and Sophie Schmidt; and strikers Christine Sinclair and Melissa Tancredi.

Veteran goalkeeper Karina LeBlanc captained the side on her 100th appearance for Canada and made a crucial second half save to preserve a 1-0 lead for her team.

In the process, LeBlanc became the first Canadian goalkeeper and only the seventh player in the country’s history to reach 100 caps.

Sinclair’s goals came in the 12th and 78th minutes respectively to give Canada a 2-0 lead before Brazil pulled one back from the penalty spot when Gabriella Demoiser converted in the 87th minute.

Canada got off on the front foot to open the match when Sinclair raced clear through on goal and appeared to have beaten the Brazilian goalkeeper until Andreia pulled off a splendid save by reaching back and denying the Canadian striker a clear shot on the empty goal.

After Sinclair was denied on her first attempt, she made no mistake with the second.

The rest of the first half unfolded largely without event with both teams trading half-chances in open play.

The game was marked by a concerning moment when Andreia collided with Emily Zurrer in an aerial clash leaving the Brazilian ‘keeper motionless.

Andreia was tended to by medical staff before being stretchered off just prior to halftime. That allowed back-up “keeper” Barbara to come in for added time.

The second half was largely influenced by Brazil’s decision to bring on Marta, who did not start the march due to her later arrival into camp in advance of the match.

Brazil continued to press after halving the deficit but Canada defended resolutely and did enough to hang on for the 2-1 win.

Also of note in the match, Sophie Schmidt made her 34th consecutive appearance for Canada, tied for sixth-longest in team history.

Christine Sinclair’s two goals on the afternoon brought her season total to 13 and her career tally to 133.

Canada’s next women’s international friendly match against the Swedes on March 31.

Thanks to Soccer Canada and the Whitecaps for the info.