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Melbourne — Jamaica advanced to the knockout round for the first time following a 0-0 draw Wednesday that ended Brazil’s run in the group stage for the first time since 1995 at the Women’s World Cup.
The scoreless game in Melbourne also ended Brazilian great Marta’s World Cup career.
She holds the all-time scoring record with 17 goals at the World Cup but couldn’t add to her tally in her sixth trip to the global tournament.
After conceding 12 goals in its Women’s World Cup debut in 1999, Jamaica shut out France, Panama and Brazil in consecutive games to finish second in Group F behind the French.
In addition to being ranked well below both Brazil and France, Jamaica progressed despite the financial struggles it faced before the tournament.
[bsa_pro_ad_space id=1]These difficulties resulted in Jamaica receiving support from fans through crowdfunding due to inadequate support from its federation. Nearly $100,000 was raised for the team through two fundraisers.
After opening the tournament with a 4-0 victory over Panama, Brazil failed to get the victory it needed to extend Marta’s World Cup campaign.
Also read : FIFA Women’s World Cup: South Africa earn round of 16 spot after win over Italy