MELBOURNE: The FIFA Women’s World Cup is all over for Brazil. A goalless draw with Jamaica allowed the ecstatic Reggae Girlz to grab runners-up slot behind France in Group F in Melbourne and progress to the knockout stages for the first time in their histOry.

Jamaica created next-to-nothing in attack but proved too resilient in defence for the South Americans. It was a remarkable turnaround for the Jamaicans who lost all their matches on their finals debut four years ago.

The Jamaica can take pride in having held both France and Brazil goalless and – crucially – beating Panama 1-0 inbetween.

Exit in this manner for a sad ending to the international career of Brazilian great Marta.

Coach Pia Sundhage brought Marta into the starting line-up for the first time in these finals but rescuing her country was beyond even her talents this time.

Marta made her World Cup debut in 2003, led Brazil to the final in 2007 and to Olympic Games silver medals in 2004 and 2008.

She said: “It’s hard to talk at a time like this. Not even in my worst nightmares was it the World Cup I dreamed of. But it is only the beginning, the Brazilian people ask for renewal, and there is renewal.

“The only old one is me, most of the others are young girls with enormous talent. For them it’s just the beginning. For Marta it ends here. There is no more World Cup for Marta.”

France finished top of Group F with a 6-3 victory over Panama with a hat-trick from Kady Diani, including two penalties.

Sweden maintained their 100pc record in Group G by finishing top after a 2-0 win over Argentina. South Africa followed them into the round of 16 with a 3-2 victory over Italy who dropped down from second place and were eliminated.

##########