GOALWill the Orlando Pride star’s lack of major international titles change at Paris 2024, despite being widely recognized as the greatest in women’s soccer?
In 2004, the state of women’s soccer was quite different from what it is today. It lacked sufficient media coverage, broadcasting opportunities were scarce, and there were limited avenues for athletes to pursue full-time professional careers. Consequently, scouting the opposition posed significant challenges. However, when Australia geared up to face Brazil at the Olympic Games, the Matildas’ team was well aware of the formidable threat they needed to be cautious of: an 18-year-old prodigy named Marta.
Prior to a match, the team typically didn’t concentrate on a single player. Sacha Wainwright, the former Australian defender, remembers the unusual decision to analyze and dissect the game of a particular player. “It was quite different for us to dedicate video sessions solely to her. We usually only paid attention to a few American players and Marta. At that time, I believe she had only played around 10 or 15 international matches.”
The reasons for placing such importance on Marta became evident in no time. Within 34 minutes, Marta skillfully maneuvered from the right and scored a goal with her powerful left foot, exactly as the Australia staff had dreaded. Wainwright chuckles, recalling how they were constantly on their guard, attempting to neutralize her in that match, but their efforts proved futile.
In the past two decades, Marta has consistently showcased her extraordinary talent, leaving no doubt about her status as the greatest player in women’s soccer history. Even at the age of 38, she approaches her sixth and final Olympics with the ability to perform magical feats on the field. Marta’s ultimate goal is to use her exceptional skills to secure a first major international title in her last attempt.
