August 31 – Brazil have dismissed Pia Sundhage as coach after their first-round exit from the recent Women’s World Cup, the country’s earliest departure since the 1995 finals.
“I would like to thank Pia and all those who worked with her and were part of the coaching staff,” said CBF president Ednaldo Rodrigues. “During this period, from 2019 to the present, Pia has also done work that has been very important for Brazilian football. We wish her every success in her new challenges.”
Under her command, the Brazilians travelled to Australia and New Zealand with high hopes of a deep run at the finals and sending the talismanic Marta off in style, but the tournament proved to be an 11-day disappointment. Brazil won just one of their three group games and exited following a goalless draw with Jamaica.
Following the exit, the hashtag ParabensPia (CongratulationsPia in Portuguese) circulated on social media channels in Brazil with supporters complaining that the team was dull and lacked creativity.
Having led the United States to two Olympic titles, Sundhage took charge of Brazil in 2019. At the Olympic Games in Tokyo, Brazil were knocked out at the quarter-final stage. The Swedish manager had been due to coach Brazil at next year’s Olympic Games in Paris.
The Confederation of Brazilian Football (CBF) said a new coaching staff will be appointed in the next few days.
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