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HIGHLIGHTS: CanWNT’s defense holds off Brazil for second consecutive 0-0 draw

Canada kept a fourth consecutive clean sheet on Monday afternoon, but again failed to find the scoresheet for the second time in a row, as Bev Priestman’s side drew 0-0 with Brazil.

As was the case on Friday against the Czech Republic, the defenders were impressive, but going forward, Canada struggled to find the back of the net. Of their 12 shots, six were on target, but few challenged the goalkeeper.

Canada probably should’ve had a penalty kick about halfway through the first half, as a Brazilian defender seemed to lean her shoulder into the ball, and out over the goal line for what should’ve at least been a corner. Christine Sinclair’s protest was to no avail.

Canada’s defenders stood out all game long, as they did on Friday. Kadeisha Buchanan again proved that she’s an indispensable member of the squad, while her centre-back partner Shelina Zadorsky again made a case to start at Tokyo 2020. The duo were clearing every attack that came their way, and their calm presence at the back was needed all game long.

Jessie Fleming had Canada’s best chance of the first half minutes before the interval, firing a long range dipping shot that forced an important save from Brazil goalkeeper Bárbara. She pushed it over the bar, to keep the score at 0-0 going into the break.

Nichelle Prince also had a few chances to get shots on goal, but they never troubled the goalkeeper.

The second half was a lot more of the same. Both teams found space behind the other’s backline, but were struggling to create scoring opportunities.

Quinn had a couple of chances from close range at the start of the second half, but they lobbed both of the shots over the bar. In a similar position to each other, and both volleys, Quinn was unable to get the ball to dip back down again.

Canada’s came close to breaking the deadlock in the 86th minute, as Zadorsky hit the post after getting on the end of a set piece.

Huitema sliced a shot wide in the final second of the match, but it didn’t hit the target, and the match would end 0-0.

Up next for Canada is the Olympic Games. They kick off in just over a month, and Priestman is expected to name her squad for the Games in the next 10 days or so.

BOX SCORE

 

Discipline

42’ Yellow: Ashley Lawrence (Canada)
73′ Yellow: Geyse Ferreira (Brazil)

MATCH NOTES

  • After playing in midfield last week, Ashley Lawrence started at right-back against Brazil. There’s a never-ending debate about where she is best deployed, but she performed well in both roles. Whatever Priestman decides, Lawrence will be a key contributor.
  • Monday’s game was the second 0-0 draw Canada has played during this window. The team has played very well defensively, but struggled to find the back of the net.