The Olympic Games are always filled with drama and excitement, and the Women’s Quarterfinal match between France and Brazil during the Paris 2024 Olympics was no exception. However, the focus was not just on the action on the field, but also on the sidelines as Brazil’s captain, Marta, found herself at the center of a controversy that would ultimately see her miss the semi-final against Spain.
Marta, a six-time FIFA World Player of the Year, was shown a straight red card in a match against Spain for raising her foot and making contact with the head of Spanish defender Olga Carmona. This incident led to Marta being suspended for two games, forcing her to sit out Brazil’s quarter-final against France, which they won 1-0.
The Brazilian Federation (CBF) immediately appealed the decision, arguing that the foul was not intentional, did not involve violence, and did not cause any harm to the opposing player. They also highlighted Marta’s impeccable conduct on and off the field, as well as her status as one of the greatest players of all time.
Despite their efforts, FIFA upheld the two-game suspension, ruling Marta out of the semi-final against Spain. Undeterred, the CBF took the matter to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in a final attempt to reverse the decision. The CAS ultimately dismissed the appeal, leaving Marta sidelined for the crucial match against Spain.
This situation drew comparisons to a similar incident in the 1962 men’s World Cup when Brazilian star winger Garrincha was sent off in the semi-final. After intense lobbying, Garrincha escaped a suspension and went on to play in the final, helping Brazil secure victory.
While Marta may have missed the semi-final, she will still have a chance to play in Brazil’s next match, whether it be for the Gold Medal or the Bronze Medal. In her sixth and final Olympic Games, Marta’s presence and influence on the team will undoubtedly be missed, but her legacy as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport will continue to shine bright.
In the end, the controversy surrounding Marta’s suspension only adds to the drama and intrigue of the Olympic Games, showcasing the passion and dedication of athletes and the lengths to which teams will go to fight for their players.