Brazil Dominates Spain to Set Up 2008 Olympic Final Rematch with USA

Brazil's women's football team delivered a stunning performance to defeat reigning world champions Spain and secure a spot in the Olympic final against the United States. The emphatic 4-2 victory in Paris sets the stage for a highly anticipated rematch of the 2008 Olympic final.

The game took a dramatic turn early on when Spain's Irene Paredes inadvertently scored an own goal, giving Brazil an early lead. Gabi Portilho doubled Brazil's advantage just before halftime, sending shockwaves through the Spanish squad, who were widely regarded as strong contenders for the gold medal.

Adriana extended Brazil's lead with a third goal, capitalizing on a mistake from the Spanish defense. Brazil achieved this impressive feat without their all-time leading scorer, Marta, who missed the match due to a suspension incurred from a red card in their previous encounter with Spain during the group stages.

Despite a glimmer of hope for Spain when Duda Sampaio's own goal reduced the deficit, Kerolin sealed Brazil's victory with a composed finish in the first of 15 added minutes. Although Salma Paralluelo managed to score a late consolation for Spain, it was too little, too late.

Spain will now face Germany in the bronze medal match in Lyon on Friday (14:00).

Brazil’s victory ensures they will at least equal their best Olympic performance, having previously won silver medals in 2004 and 2008, both times losing to the USA. The final, scheduled for Saturday, promises to be a thrilling encounter as Brazil seeks to avenge those past defeats and claim their first Olympic gold in women's football.