The the Dutch Lionesses started the Tournoi de France with a draw against Brazil. Mark Parsons’ team was on its way to victory after a brilliant goal by Lineth Beerensteyn, but a penalty from veteran Marta threw a spanner in the works: 1-1. The Netherlands also plays against Finland and France in the friendly tournament.
The Tournoi de France should serve as the final preparation for national coach Parsons for the decisive phase of the World Cup qualifiers and the European Championship, which will be completed in England this summer. The Tournoi de France has been organized annually by the French Football Federation since 2020. In addition to the French national team, three host countries are invited.
† Lineth Beerensteyn shoots @orangevrouwen in an unparalleled way ahead! † pic.twitter.com/08rb2mnusp
— ESPN NL (@ESPNnl) February 16, 2022
The Lionesses were slightly favorite in advance, but will also have realized that Brazil is a formidable opponent. Both teams appeared to be evenly matched on the field and there were opportunities for both sides. Ary Borges hit the bar early on behalf of Brazil, while Vivianne Miedema then sloppy with two big chances. After half an hour, Ary Borges should have scored the opening goal, but the midfielder headed wide.
Shortly after the break, Brazilian goalkeeper Lorena stepped. Her replacement Leticia had to watch in the 62nd minute as Beerensteyn took the lead in a phenomenal way for the the Dutch women. Sherida Spitse sent the right winger away with a perfect depth ball, after which Beerensteyn shot the ball from the bounce over Leticia: 0-1. Miedema then got a free shooting opportunity after a cut, but Leticia saved. In the absolute final phase, Brazil received a penalty because of a handball from Merel van Dongen, who herself claimed to have kept her arms at her sides. Yet Marta was able to score her 114th goal for Brazil from the spot: 1-1. Shortly afterwards, Van Dongen had to pull the emergency brake and received her second yellow card.
Related
More sports news