Canada unveiled 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 roster before the deadline on Wednesday.
The reigning Olympic gold medalists, who are the only country to have made the last three Olympic podiums, have included almost all players with previous Olympic experience in their lineup. The team will be led by Portland Thorns midfielder Jessie Fleming as captain.
Last summer was a challenging one for Canada, marked by an early exit from the World Cup. The team faced various problems, including off-field disputes and the retirement of Christine Sinclair, the leading international goal scorer of all time.
“I believe we have a squad that blends experience and youth, is positionally balanced, and possesses incredible athleticism and football talent,” stated coach Bev Priestman.
Brazil recently announced its 18-player Olympic roster, featuring familiar NWSL stars like Tarciane (Houston Dash), Rafaelle (Orlando Pride), Adriana (Orlando Pride), Kerolin (NC Courage), and Marta (Orlando Pride). Angelina (Orlando Pride) and Lauren (KC Current) are the alternates for the team.
Prazer, @JogosOlimpicos! Estamos prontas. Chegou a hora. Mais um capítulo da nossa história sendo escrito.
Com vocês, o elenco de atletas que irão representar com muito orgulho a #SeleçãoFeminina! 🇧🇷 pic.twitter.com/YS3RPhLDyR
— Seleção Feminina de Futebol (@SelecaoFeminina) July 2, 2024
All attention was on Brazil’s new head coach Arthur Elias as he revealed the roster for the upcoming tournament. Marta, a global soccer legend, will be playing in her sixth Olympics and is expected to retire from international play after the event.
If Marta scores in Paris, she will be the first player, male or female, to score in six consecutive Summer Games. She holds the record for most goals scored for both club and country and is considered a football icon.
Half of Brazil’s lineup participated in last year’s World Cup under former head coach Pia Sundhage. Notable striker Debinha, who plays for the NWSL’s Kansas City Current, did not make the Olympic team.