Canada revealed its official Olympic women’s national team (CanWNT) on Monday, making them the fourth team in the 12-squad tournament to finalize their 18-player lineup before the Wednesday deadline.
The only country to have podium finishes in the last three Olympics, almost all players selected for the reigning Olympic gold medalists’ squad have previous Olympic experience. Portland Thorns midfielder, Jessie Fleming, will serve as the captain of this year’s team.
Last year was a challenging one for Canada, marked by an early exit from the World Cup. In a tumultuous year, head coach Bev Priestman’s team also dealt with off-field disputes as well as the retirement of Christine Sinclair, the all-time leading international goal scorer in women’s soccer.
“I believe we have a squad that blends experience and youth, is positionally balanced, and possesses incredible athleticism and football talent,” coach Bev Priestman said in a statement.
Brazil also unveiled its 18-player Olympic roster on Tuesday, including familiar faces like NWSL stars Tarciane (Houston Dash), Rafaelle (Orlando Pride), Adriana (Orlando Pride), Kerolin (NC Courage), and Marta (Orlando Pride). Angelina (Orlando Pride) and Lauren (KC Current) will serve as alternates.
Pleasure, @JogosOlimpicos! We are ready. The time has come. Another chapter of our history is being written. With you, the team of athletes who will proudly represent the #SeleçãoFeminina! 🇧🇷 pic.twitter.com/YS3RPhLDyR
— Seleção Feminina de Futebol (@SelecaoFeminina) July 2, 2024
All eyes were on the much-anticipated roster of new head coach Arthur Elias, especially with Marta, a global soccer legend, announcing her upcoming retirement from international play in late April. This tournament will be the 38-year-old’s sixth Olympics and likely her final international appearance.
If Marta scores in Paris, she will be the first player, male or female, to score in six consecutive Summer Games. She currently holds the record for the all-time leading goal scorer for both club and country, with 35 goals for the Orlando Pride and 199 for Brazil.
Half of Brazil’s roster also participated in last year’s World Cup under former head coach Pia Sundhage. However, prominent striker Debinha, who plays for the undefeated Kansas City Current in the NWSL, did not make the Olympic squad.
