Orlando Pride's Marta scores brace to help Brazil defend Copa America Femenina title

Brazil were crowned champions of the Copa America Femenina, defeating Colombia 5-4 in penalties after a 4-4 draw across regulation and extra time. Las Canarinhas legend Marta scored twice in the match, leading her country to a dramatic defense of their Copa America title. 

Colombia led three times throughout regulation, but in stoppage time as the final seconds ticked, Marta scored a long-range effort to send the match to extra time at 3-3. She proceeded to score again in the overtime period, but Colombia drew level shortly thereafter, to send the match to penalties. 

Marta's penalty attempt was saved, but the reigning champions remained resilient and came out on top 5-4.

"I think women's soccer has been growing a lot. I think the trend is for it to be more competitive. Everyone here deserved a match like this. Congratulations to Colombia too," Brazil's Amanda Gutierres said after the match Saturday night. "This means a lot. I think it's Brazil's job. It's that mentality of never giving up. That's a source of pride for Brazil. I think it means a lot to Brazilians."

Marta had initially retired from international soccer after Brazil took the silver medal at the 2024 Olympics, but in the spring, she was recalled to the national team squad for a pair of pre-tournament friendlies. 

A six-time FIFA Player of the Year, her final performance single-handedly helped Brazil retain their trophy. Across her storied career, she has now scored 122 international goals in 213 games. 

Marta was awarded the trophy for the Player of the Tournament.

By reaching the final, both Brazil and Colombia automatically qualifed to represent South America at the 2028 women's soccer tournament in the Los Angeles Olympic Games. As South American champions, Brazil will take on England in the UEFA-CONMEBOL showpiece match, the Finalissima.

In 2023, England won the first edition, defeating Brazil in penalty kicks at Wembley Stadium.