Jamaica advances to the last 16 as Brazil is eliminated from the Women’s World Cup after a decisive victory by Draw.

In their second Women’s World Cup appearance, Jamaica secured a spot in the knockout phase for the first time by playing a goalless draw against Brazil, which also resulted in the South Americans experiencing their earliest elimination since 1995.

The Reggae Girlz, requiring a single point to advance, posed little offensive threat but displayed a solid defensive performance, successfully fending off numerous Brazilian attacks in a high-energy atmosphere at Melbourne Rectangular Stadium.

In her sixth World Cup, Brazil coach Pia Sundhage included Marta in the starting lineup for the first time, but unfortunately, the legendary forward’s journey ended in disappointment.

Early on, she struggled with her touch, as evidenced by a shot that hit a defender in the fourth minute. Additionally, she squandered another opportunity seven minutes later with a heavy touch, leaving an unmarked Ary Borges frustrated at the far post.

As Borges made a dash towards the goal, she was presented with an opportunity when Luana delivered a cross. However, the playmaker’s header went wide, missing the target by a significant margin in the 24th minute.

Later in the first half, Borges skillfully provided a beautiful cross into the inside-left channel, setting up Tamires with a scoring chance. However, Tamires’ powerful volley went straight at goalkeeper Becky Spencer.

Jamaica was fortunate to reach half-time without conceding, and Brazil’s sense of urgency increased after the break as their relentless attacks failed to yield any results.

In the 79th minute, Jamaican fans held their breath as defender Allyson Swaby nearly scored an own goal with a poor attempted clearance, but goalkeeper Spencer made an impressive save at the far post to prevent disaster.