Beat Brazil, Marta and USWNT advance to Semis

It is not an easy task by any measure but the equation is simple - beat Marta (click HERE to see what the U.S. defense faces) and Brazil to advance to the semi-final round of the 2011 Women's World Cup. Now all U.S. Head Coach Pia Sundhage has to do is figure out how to stop slow down 5-time FIFA Women's World Player of the year. Or, in the words of ESPN sportscenter anchors, you can't stop her you can only hope to contain her.

Sundhage On the USA's quarterfinal match with Brazil:


“What we will talk about from now on is playing in the final. In order to play in the final we need to step up and be sharper with our chances. We start with Brazil. That will motivate the players more and this is a big chance.”
 
This is not the easiest way to win a third Women's World Cup for the USWNT but it may be just the medicine this team needs. A win against a very strong Brazilian side would immediately pay dividends to boosting the confidence of the U.S. women (even though they say they already are confident).

The history is there for the Red, White, and Blue as well as for goalkeeping standout Hope Solo with the team having beat Brazil 1-0 to win the 2008 Olympic Gold Medal in China.

Solo On facing Brazil in the quarterfinal:


"We knew it could happen. Brazil's a great team with great individual players. Of course they have the best individual player [Marta] but there are holes. You can find holes in their defense and their midfield and there's space to play. If we come to play and play as a team we can come out on top. If we play well we can really take it to Brazil."
 
The U.S. plays Brazil July 10 in Dresded, Germany. The game will be on ESPN at 11 a.m.