The Icelandic women’s national football team lost to Brazil in an international friendly match in Laugardalur, Reykjavík, last night, reports Vísir. It was the team’s last match before the UEFA Women’s EURO 2017 begins in the Netherlands on July 16. The only goal of the match was scored at the 67th minute by Brazil’s Marta.
The Icelandic team played a strong game but faced a difficult challenge in the Brazilian team, which is one of the best in the world and currently ranked in FIFA’s top ten. Moreover, their challenge was compounded by the fact that team captain Margrét Lára Viðarsdóttir, who is also the team’s all-time top goal scorer, could not play last night due to a torn a ligament in her knee, as announced before the match. For the same reason, she will not be playing in the EURO this summer.
The Icelandic team played particularly well in the first half, with Agla María Albertsdóttir making an attempt on goal within the first thirty seconds. And although Brazil took possession of the ball more in the second half, Iceland’s defense remained strong. Despite their loss, commentators are commending the team on its tight gameplay last night, and for keeping the score so low against such a strong competitor. Their performance bodes well for the upcoming EURO championship.
An attendance record for Laugardalur arena was set at the game, with 7,521 people attending.
Iceland will play its first match of the EURO against France on July 18 at 6:45 pm.
