BRAZIL lived up to its top billing, beating Portugal, 3-0, to make history as the first-ever FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup champion Sunday night at a packed PhilSports Arena.
Emilly fired a rocket at the 10th minute to set the tone then veteran Amandhina (23rd) and Debora Vanin (38th) struck after re-start to put the finishing touches to the Seleção’s date with destiny in front of a 5,087-strong crowd.
The masterclass performance in the finale capped a spotless run over six matches for top-ranked Brazil in the event backed by the Philippine Sports Commission and Philippine Football Federation that sealed its status as best of the best.
“Really happy. The players are amazing, the coaching staff is wonderful,” said coach Wilson Saboia after the Brazilians earned the honors as inaugural WC champs after ruling nearly every international competition.
“It leaves a huge legacy because it will further popularize futsal in schools, clubs, universities (back home). All of this will produce better coaches and players,” Saboia added.
Adding another feather to her cap, 2024 Best Women’s Player Emilly won both the adidas Golden Ball and adidas Golden Boot, for being the tournament’s MVP and top scorer, respectively.
Her teammate Vanin was awarded the Silver Ball while Portuguese star Lidia Moreira was bestowed the Bronze Ball. Portugal keeper Ana Catarina Pereira was feted with the Golden Glove plum as the Brazilians were handed the FIFA Fair Play award.
Spain star Laura Cordoba, whose team took third place with a 5-1 win over Argentina, took the Silver Boot while Moreira got the Bronze Boot.
Brazil’s coronation wrapped up 16 days of thrilling action in the global showpiece that served as venue for the world-class hosting of the Philippines and milestones for the 16 participating teams including the Filipina5 who scored goals via Inday Tolentin, Cathrine Graversen and Isabella Bandoja during group play.
