An impressive hat-trick from Ary Borges has spearheaded Brazil to a resounding 4-0 victory over Panama in Group F of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup at Hindmarsh Stadium.
Borges struck twice in the first half before completing her hat-trick after the break, while also supplying a stunning assist for Brazil’s third.
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Panama, competing in their maiden Women’s World Cup, were no match for the Brazilians who dominated play from start to finish on Monday.
There were emotional scenes ahead of the battle with players and fans in tears as Panama sang their national anthem for the first time at a Women’s World Cup.
Panama fans and players were in tears as they sang the national anthem before their maiden Women’s World Cup appearance.
Credit: Optus Sport
But after the tears were shed, it was time to panic.
Panama were on the front foot as early as the first minute when Bia Zaneratto slipped through Adriana who tried to poke it past the on-rushing Yenith Bailey only for the Panama goalkeeper to block the effort.
Brazil peppered Panama’s goal and on 18 minutes Debinha’s free kick from 25 metres whizzed just past the post.
The Selecao eventually broke the deadlock a minute later and Debinha was involved again, this time cutting inside from the left and delivering a cross to the far post. Borges slipped her marker and found herself unguarded to nod home from six yards.
Borges grabbed her brace in the 39th minute in similar fashion to her first. Adriana released Tamires on the left who drove to the byline and lifted a cross to the back post.
Borges’ header was saved by Bailey, but the rebound fell perfectly for the Brazilian midfielder to slam it home from close range.
Brazil wasted no time following the interval and added a third three minutes after the restart with a stunning team effort and an early contender for goal of the tournament.
Ary Borges celebrates her hat-trick goal with superstar teammate Marta during Brazil’s belting of Panama at Hindmarsh Stadium in Adelaide.
Credit: Getty Images
Tamires slipped through Debinha on the left who played a one-two inside the area with Adriana, who completed the return pass with a clever flick.
Debihna crossed to the penalty spot where Borges controlled and shaped to shoot, before teeing up Bia Zaneratto with a delightful backheel. With Panama