The 6 players to watch out for in the next Brazil vs USA match
The grand final of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games is just around the corner, and on Saturday, August 10, the world will see the two powerhouses of women's soccer: Brazil and the United States. It will be the 41st time these two teams have met, but this time there's more at stake than ever before. For the United States, it's the chance to return to the top of the international game with a fifth Olympic gold medal, the first under coach Emma Hayes. For Brazil, it's the chance to make history and give Marta, the greatest player of all time, a glorious end to her career with an unprecedented gold medal.
With so many stars on the pitch, we decided to highlight six players - three from each side - who could be decisive in this epic clash. These players not only have talent and experience, but are also in great shape, ready to shine at the Parc des Princes. Let's get to know them.
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1. Marta (Brazil)
The legend, the Queen, the incomparable Marta. Six times voted best in the world, Marta is already one of the greatest of all time. At 38, this could be her last chance to win Olympic gold and crown a career that has inspired generations. Marta is a symbol of excellence and perseverance in women's soccer. Her ability to create plays, score goals and lead her team in times of pressure make her Brazil's main hope. Against the USA, her experience and leadership will be crucial.
2. Lindsey Horan (USA)
American captain Lindsey Horan is a key player in the US midfield. With 155 international caps to her name, Horan brings a mix of experience, versatility and skill that few players possess. She can play in several positions, whether it's creating plays, scoring goals or helping out in defense. Under Emma Hayes, Horan has stood out even more, being the player who dictates the pace and intensity of the game. Her ability to control the midfield will be vital for the United States.
3. Lorena (Brazil)
If Brazil made it to the Olympic final, it was thanks to the brilliant performances of goalkeeper Lorena. With confident saves, a perfect record in clearances and an impressive ability to save penalties, Lorena has been a real wall in the Brazilian goal. During the tournament, she was Brazil's best player in several matches, ensuring that the Canarinho team could dream of gold. In the final against the USA, her security in goal will be essential to keep the Americans at bay.
4. Trinity Rodman (USA)
Trinity Rodman, 22, is one of the emerging stars of American women's soccer. Called up for her first Olympics, Rodman has not disappointed. With 9 goals and 10 assists in 36 caps, she is a skillful, fast and dangerous striker anywhere on the pitch. During the Olympic Games, her performance was key to getting the USA to the final. With Megan Rapinoe and Alex Morgan out of the Olympic squad, Rodman has become one of the team's main offensive references and promises to be a nightmare for the Brazilian defense.
5. Gabi Portilho (Brazil)
At 29, Gabi Portilho is playing in her first major competition with the Brazilian national team, but she's already shown what she's come for. With a winning record at Corinthians, where she won several titles, Portilho has brought that winning mentality to the national team. In the semi-final against Spain, she scored the decisive goal that put Brazil into the final. Her intensity and decision-making make her a key player in Brazil's attack. She's a quick player and very fast. The USWNT defense needs to be on its guard, as the Brazilians will look for her on the long ball.
6. Sophia Smith (USA)
Sophia Smith, 24, is another American player who is making a name for herself in Paris 2024. A striker for the Portland Thorns, Smith combines speed, skill and a keen eye for goal. Her performance so far, with three goals scored, makes her one of the USA's main weapons. With her ability to create chances and finish with precision, Smith will be a constant threat to the Brazilian defense and could be decisive in the Americans' quest for a fifth Olympic gold medal.