Brazil’s Marta Breaks Olympic Goalscoring Record

Brazilian legend Pele hailed Marta as “much more than a footballer” and an “inspiration” after she scored in a fifth Olympic Games on Wednesday.

The 35-year-old scored twice as Brazil opened their Tokyo Olympics campaign with a 5-0 rout of China.

Marta became the first player to score in five straight Olympics when Brazil beat China 5-0 on Wednesday in the women’s football tournament.

Striker Debinha chipped in one goal and one assist in the Group F win. Brazil outshot China 24-8 and held a 58% edge in possession.

Striker Beatriz assisted Marta for Brazil’s first score. China goalie Peng Shimeng blocked an initial attempt and Beatriz recovered the deflection. She sent a pass back to Marta, who buried a left-footed shot from about seven yards out.

Brazil made the best possible start to their opening Pool F fixture against China thanks to Marta, who made history by netting her 11th goal in Olympic competition before Debinha doubled their advantage midway through the first half. Marta then added a second goal in the second half.