The bank of Uruguay was open for business at Estadio Rodrigo Paz Delgado in Quito, Ecuador, and Brazil was more than happy to cash a few cheques with an Olympic quota place on the line.
The Canarinha, runners-up at the Olympic Games Paris 2024, were ruthless in their assault of the Uruguayan goal, scoring on five separate occasions to author a blowout 5-1 victory and secure a quota place for the Olympic Games LA28.
“We are very happy, it is my first final,” confirmed forward Amanda Gutierres to Reuters. “It is the result of the work we have been doing with the coach.”
While quick to credit Brazilian maestro Arthur Elias, Gutierres was certainly more than a sedentary bystander during her side’s thrilling clash with Uruguay on Tuesday, 29 July.
The 24-year-old from Santa Cruz de Monte Castelo led Brazil’s offensive charge, putting her feet – and head – to the task, with two goals to show for her effort.
And while she had every right to live in the moment, Gutierres, instead, chose to focus on the battle ahead and the title at stake.
“Colombia are a very tough opponent,” she said of Brazil’s next adversary. “But we are working very hard to win that trophy.”