By Prosper Mene
At 39, Brazilian football legend Marta Vieira da Silva proved she’s still a game-changer, leading Brazil to their ninth Copa América Femenina title in a thrilling 5-4 penalty shootout win over Colombia on August 2, 2025. The match, held at Rodrigo Paz Delgado Stadium, ended 4-4 after extra time, with Marta’s heroics stealing the show.
Coming off the bench in the 82nd minute with Brazil down 2-1, Marta made a comeback. Colombia took the lead through Linda Caicedo, but Angelina Alonso’s penalty tied it up before halftime.
Colombia went ahead again with an own goal by Brazil’s Tarciane, only for Amanda Gutierres to equalize. When Colombia scored late to lead 3-2, Marta’s stunning stoppage-time strike forced extra time. She then put Brazil ahead 4-3 in extra time, but Colombia’s Leicy Santos tied it at 4-4.
In the shootout, Marta’s penalty was saved, but goalkeeper Lorena Da Silva saved two shots, including one in sudden death, to secure Brazil’s victory.
Marta, named Player of the Tournament, celebrated her fourth Copa América title and Brazil’s fifth straight, cementing her legacy as a football icon. The win also earned Brazil a spot in the 2027 Pan American Games and 2028 Olympics.
