In a one-sided semi-final in Shanghai, Marta and Cristiane inspired Brazil to come from behind to beat Germany 4:1. At the post-match press conference, Brazil's head coach said Chinese fans played a key role in Brazil's overwhelming victory.

Head coach Jorge Barcellos talks to the press in the post-match press conference. [Xiang Bin/china.org.cn]

"I know there are lots of fans of Brazilian soccer in China. They came to support us and cheered for us, which made us feel at home. They motivated us to win the match," Jorge Barcellos, head coach of the Brazilian women's soccer team, told the press.

"Chinese people are kind and friendly and they love Brazilian soccer. I can feel that," Barcellos continued.

"The players were a little tense when the match started, but with some minor adjustments we improved our play and went on to control the game. Everyone contributed to the victory. I was concerned about the hot and wet weather here before the match, but fortunately it didn't rain today," Barcellos commented.

In the final, the samba squad will play defending champions USA, who beat Japan in the other semi-final.

(China.org.cn by Xiang Bin August 19, 2008)