Brazil shown 8 red cards in physical 1-0 loss to USWNT

The Brazil women’s national team was penalized with eight red cards—a record in a single match—during a tense 1-0 defeat to the U.S. women’s national team (USWNT) on Tuesday at Arena Castelão in Fortaleza. Two Brazilian players, Bia Zaneratto and Kerolin, received red cards for second yellow offenses, while three staff members were also sent off. Head coach Arthur Elias was dismissed after accumulating two yellow cards, including one in the second half. The USWNT secured its first win over Brazil on Brazilian soil since 1997, with Sophia Wilson scoring the lone goal in the 63rd minute after a deflection off Brazil defender Isabela, which was ruled an own goal. The match followed a 2-1 loss to Brazil just four days earlier, marking the USWNT’s first back-to-back defeats to the same opponent since 2011. The game was defined by extreme physicality, with multiple yellow cards issued early, including one to Brazil’s Gio Garbelini and two to USWNT players, Lindsey Heaps and Rose Lavelle, by the 43rd minute. The intensity escalated in stoppage time, with Marta, Tarciane, and Ludmila also receiving red cards as tensions boiled over. Brazil, ranked sixth globally by FIFA, will host the 2027 Women’s World Cup as the first South American nation to do so. The USWNT’s victory improved their record against Brazil, who last lost a major tournament final to the Americans in the 2024 Olympic gold medal match. USWNT coach Emma Hayes criticized the match’s conduct, emphasizing respect for officials and disciplined behavior. The game drew 55,744 fans, creating a charged atmosphere despite the chaotic conclusion. Brazil’s disorganized end to the match overshadowed their earlier dominance, leaving questions about their preparation ahead of the upcoming World Cup.