Legendary Brazilian footballer Marta’s illustrious Olympic career came to a heartbreaking end on Wednesday as she was sent off in Brazil’s final group game against reigning world champion Spain at the Paris Olympics 2024.
The six-time women’s world player of the year, playing in her sixth Olympics, received a straight red card in the blockbuster clash between Brazil and Spain. The 38-year-old star had already announced that the ongoing Paris Games would be her last major tournament with the national women’s football team.
Marta’s dismissal came in the first-half stoppage time after a harsh tackle on Spain’s Olga Carmona. The Brazilian captain was visibly distraught as she walked off the field in Bordeaux, her Olympic dream shattered.
Brazil, one of the most successful teams in women’s football history, has come close to a historic gold twice, winning silver medals in the 2004 and 2008 editions of the women’s tournaments at the Olympics.
Marta, better known just by her first name, has smashed a record 119 goals in 200 international appearances with Brazil in her glittering career. In addition to her six Olympic appearances, she has also featured in six FIFA women’s World Cups, netting the most FIFA World Cup goals (17).
The Brazilian icon also has 13 Olympic goals to her name, one away from matching fellow Brazilian Cristiane’s all-time record at the Games.
Marta’s red card was a cruel blow to Brazil’s hopes of reaching the quarterfinals. The Selecao will now face a daunting task against the Netherlands in the knockout stage.
