Stars step up as Australia and Brazil march through
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E-mail Xinhua, June 19, 2019
Italy topped group C on goal difference to reach the knockout stage of Women's World Cup despite losing 1-0 to Brazil on Tuesday.
Australia, who beat Jamaica 4-1 thanks to Sam Kerr's four goals, and Brazil both collected six points to advance to the final 16.
Brazil women's football legend Marta scored a record 17th World Cup finals goal in her team's win over Italy.
The sixth-time world player of the year converted a penalty kick in the 74th minute to make herself the all-time leading scorer at men's or women's World Cups, overtaking retired Germany striker Miroslav Klose who has 16 under his name.
"I am very honored, happy to write the history in a sport that for some people is still seen as a men's sport," Marta said.
"We are breaking records, showing how much women's football has been developing. It's a story not only for Marta, but also for all women out there," she said.
Italy, who had qualified for the knockout stage prior to the match, created two good scoring chances through Barbara Bonansea in tonight's duel.
Brazil, who hit the bar through Andressinha's free kick in the first half, gained upper hand after break.
The top three through Group C collected the same six points. Italy are on top with scoring seven goals and conceding two, followed by Ausralia with a record of 8-5 and Brazil with 6-3.
The top two finshers of the six groups plus the four best third placers will advance to the round of 16 knockout stage.
In the final 16, Australia will face Norway, while the respective opponents of Italy and Brazil remain undecided.
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