Jamaica's Allyson Swaby clinches vital goal, battles Panama for last-16 berth against Brazil in Women's World Cup
Jamaica's historic Women's World Cup victory fuels their hope for a place in the last-16 Allyson Swaby's crucial goal from a corner secures their second spot in Group F A win or draw against Brazil will guarantee their spot in the knock-outs Exciting times ahead!
Allyson Swaby's goal in Jamaica's 1-0 triumph against Panama implies that a draw in their last Group F match against Brazil would secure their spot in the last-16 of the Women's World Cup. Earlier on Saturday, Brazil suffered a 2-1 loss to France, enabling Jamaica to surpass them and claim the second position in the group, as Panama was eliminated.
Jamaica's surprising performance against France, holding them to a goalless draw in their first match, puts them in an incredible position just one point away from advancing to the knockout stage. To secure a spot, Brazil must defeat Jamaica in their upcoming match in Melbourne on Wednesday.
While France and Jamaica are tied at four points, France holds the advantage in the standings due to more goals scored. However, France expects to defeat Panama in their final match and secure the top spot.
Jamaica was in control of the game in the first half, launching numerous attacks and keeping Panama goalkeeper Yenith Bailey busy. However, they were unable to find the back of the net despite their relentless efforts.
Just before the half-time whistle, an excellent opportunity slipped away when Bailey managed to stretch enough to touch midfielder Drew Spence's free-kick, leaving the frustrated Jamaican team still scoreless.
Panama, participating in their inaugural Women's World Cup, displayed a revitalized energy in the opening 10 minutes of the second half. Lineth Cedeno, the forward, unfortunately misaimed her header, denying her country their maiden goal in this prestigious tournament.
Jamaica resiliently withstood the pressure and, in the 56th minute, Trudi Carter delivered a well-executed low corner to Swaby. Swaby, leading the Jamaican team as captain in the absence of Khadija Shaw, who received a red card in their previous 0-0 draw against France, skillfully converted the opportunity.
The 'Reggae Girlz' protected their lead for the remainder of the game, and despite a few nervy moments in stoppage time held on to celebrate their first World Cup victory.
Image:
Swaby, right, and Tiernny Wiltshire celebrate Jamaica's win at full-time
What's next?
Jamaica will wrap up their Group F campaign with a match against Brazil in Melbourne, Australia at 11am on Wednesday.Panama's last group game will take place simultaneously against France in Sydney, Australia.
What is the Women's World Cup schedule?
The group stage is currently underway and will continue for the next two weeks, concluding on August 3. Teams who finish as winners or runners-up in their respective groups will advance to the round of 16, which is set to occur from August 5 to August 8.Scheduled for August 11 and 12, the quarter-finals will be held across Wellington, Auckland, Brisbane, and Sydney.
The first semi-final is scheduled for August 15 in Auckland, while the second semi-final will be held on August 16 at the Accor Stadium in Sydney. The final will also take place at the Accor Stadium on August 20. Additionally, a third-place play-off is scheduled for August 19 in Brisbane, a day prior to the final.
