Jamaica makes history in Women's World Cup as they advance to Round of 16
Jamaica head coach Lorne Donaldson and player Atlanta Primus Credit: Maddie Meyer - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images
In an exciting turn of events at the FIFA Women's World Cup, Jamaica carved out their place in history by holding Brazil to a 0-0 draw in Melbourne, thereby securing their advancement to the Round of 16.
The Reggae Girlz are the first team from the Caribbean to achieve such a feat.
Going into the match, Jamaica knew a draw would be enough to progress while Brazil needed a win to move forward. The South American side possessed the ball 59% of the time in the first half. However, despite their effort, Brazil found it difficult to penetrate the disciplined and well-organised Jamaican defense.
The most noteworthy attempt in the first hour of the match came from Brazil's Tamires in the 39th minute, but her shot was easily dealt with by Jamaica's goalkeeper, Rebecca Spencer.
As the game wore on, Brazil's frustrations mounted, seemingly fueling the confidence and resolve of the Jamaican defense.
Despite their star forward Khadija Shaw being limited by injury and the team not generating much on the attacking front, Jamaica's defensive efforts more than made up for it.
In what may be her last Women's World Cup, Brazil's legendary forward Marta was in the starting lineup, aiming to be the first player to score in six World Cups.
However, her night ended in the 81st minute, while Jamaica weathered a few late Brazilian attacks to secure their historical achievement.
Having conceded 12 goals in their only previous World Cup appearance four years ago, Jamaica has yet to let in a single goal at Australia & New Zealand 2023.
