Brazil Adelaide/UNI: Ary Borges scored a brilliant hat-trick as Brazil made a dominant start to their FIFA Women’s World Cup campaign, thrashing Panama 4-0 in Group F match here on Monday.
Adriana set the tone right away, breaking through the Panama defence and poking her effort towards Yenith Bailey in just 44 seconds.
Brazil continued to hound Bailey’s goal, racking up five attempts in 10 minutes before the pressure proved too much. Debinha drifted to the left wing and laid on a perfect cross for Borges, who directed her header low beyond Bailey for the opener.
Borges added her second before the break to capitalise on a relentless spell of attacking dominance from Pia Sundhage’s side, who often had nine or 10 players in Panama’s half. While Bailey did well to save Borges’ initial header, she had no chance with the rebound that fell right back at Borges’ feet for 2-0, the FIFA reported.
Borges was once again key for the Seleção's third just two minutes after the break. Despite having a clear look on goal, her unselfish back-heel laid on a simple finish for Bia Zaneratto, who guided the ball into the roof of the net.
The day belonged to Borges though. She once again escaped her marker as Geyse’s cross provided the perfect opportunity for her third. Borges coolly headed through Bailey’s legs to complete a brilliant hat-trick on her tournament debut.
Borges made way for the iconic Marta with 15 minutes remaining, the tournament's all-time top scorer making an appearance in her sixth Women's World Cup, much to the enjoyment of everyone at Adelaide's Hindmarsh Stadium.
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