The hosts missed a golden opportunity to take an early lead when Sakina Karchaoui’s penalty was saved by Brazil keeper Lorena. Griedge Mbock Bathy then struck the crossbar with a header, before Lorena denied Delphine Cascarino in a one-on-one just before half-time.
Brazil started the second half stronger but France fought back and the winner seemed a matter of time as Selma Bacha and Cascarino missed chances. But in the 82nd minute, France failed to clear Adriana’s shot and Gabi Portilho [pictured] slotted home to give Brazil a lead they held through 16 minutes of stoppage time.
The world champions, Spain, await in the semi-finals after they fought back to deny Colombia a surprise victory. The underdogs had taken a 2-0 lead through Mayra Ramírez and Leicy Santos, but Jenni Hermoso pulled one back in the 79th minute and Irene Paredes levelled in the seventh minute of injury time.
With no goals in extra time, the match went to penalties and it was Colombia who blinked first, with Spain keeper Cata Coll keeping out Catalina Usme’s weak attempt. Colombia’s Liana Salazar also missed her spot kick and Aitana Bonmatí coolly converted Spain’s fourth spot-kick in a row to send them through.
Germany will face the USA in the other semi-final after they ended Canada’s tumultuous title defence on penalties after a goalless draw. Goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger was the hero, saving from Ashley Lawrence and Adriana Leo before stepping up to score the winning spot-kick. Reuters
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