That’s one way to beat the world champions.
The reaction from Ireland coach Dave Connell said it all. Lauren Kelly uncorked a drive from way outside the Brazilian box and that was all she wrote.
Ireland kicked off their group section, in Naples, at the World University Games by beating the reigning champions Brazil 1-0.
The Irish side had looked good throughout their championship opener but the game looked to be heading towards a draw. Megan Smyth-Lynch had struck the crossbar and Eleanor Ryan-Doyle had a headed goal ruled out for offside.
Then, with 15 minutes left, Brazil were dispossessed inside their half. Lauren Kelly pounced on a loose pass and nutmegged one Brazilian player before sizing up her options and letting fly from 30 yards out. The goalkeeper did not stand a chance.
The Lauren Kelly screamer that saw Ireland beat Brazil in the World University Games 🔥🔥pic.twitter.com/p0XzrfEZ0n
— SportsJOE (@SportsJOEdotie) July 3, 2019
The goal from the Maynooth University star was enough to secure the victory, with Amanda McQuillan looking solid in goal for Ireland.
Connell’s side now take on South Korea, in their next game (Thursday, 5pm kick-off Irish time), and there is a place at the quarter finals at stake.
