It is heartbreaking to see a legend leaving the pitch teary-eyed. La Beaujoire Stadium in Paris just had to witness that. Brazil’s veteran, Marta, who earlier announced her retirement plans, was sent off during the final group stage fixture vs Spain. It may also prove to be Brazil’s final game in the ongoing Paris Olympics 2024 as they may not advance to the quarter-finals. The moment of course saw the 38-year-old leave the pitch in tears, leaving the soccer world to debate.

Getting a red card in what could be one’s final game is certainly a feeling that no one can express. The unfortunate incident transpired with Marta during the 44th minute of the game. She committed the foul on Olga Carmona and the referee didn’t hesitate to take out a red from his pocket. But when closely looking at the foul, we can understand the bold decision taken by the official.

In an attempt to clear the ball, the Orlando Pride star raised her leg which simultaneously collided with Carmona’s head. Though the 38-year-old was fervently trying to defend her unintentional challenge on Spain’s 24-year-old left-back, it failed to change the referee’s mind. After this, Marta started crying on the pitch with her teammates, and a few Spanish stars trying to console the Orlando Pride star.

It indeed comes down to be an emotional moment for the iconic Brazilian forward as her nation would be forced to play the latter half with just 10 players. Already, Brazil is at third, leveled with three points behind Japan. If the Asian country wins against Nigeria, then Brazil will automatically go home as, forget a win, even a draw won’t be sufficient for the Verde-Amarela to progress further.

Though any two third-placed teams in Groups A, B, and C would still be given a chance to prove themselves in the quarter-finals, it’s doubtful whether Brazil is going to be one of them. Even if they do go into the last 8, Marta would remain absent, and the responsibility will all come down to Brazil’s shoulders to help their veteran play in the semis.

Regardless, for now, the red card has created havoc in the soccer world as they have taken over the internet.

Soccer world gets split to react over Marta getting sent off during Brazil vs Spain

The soccer fraternity looks to be separated on X, formerly Twitter with Marta’s red card incident. Though both parties are consoling the iconic forward, a few insist that she deserved the sending-off, when looking at the extent of the challenge.

2024 remains the final year where everyone will get to witness Marta and this fan expressed his sadness that it wasn’t the farewell that she deserved. Beyond her career achievements, it would be her talent and sheer dominance on the attacking front that will be missed by many.

Even though it is sad to see the way things ended for Marta on the international front, it doesn’t justify the challenge she made to Carmona. Despite it wasn’t the Pride forward’s intention, she was just unlucky how things transpired in today’s game.

Another reason why the red card is justified is because Marta lifted her foot above the waistline, a move which often gets called out in no time. One can argue that the Spanish defender didn’t had to duck and head at such a low height but it’s just unfortunate that it saw her collide with the Brazilian superstar’s foot.

Having made over 175 caps and scored over 115 goals for Brazil, Marta undoubtedly enjoyed an illustrious career on the international front. Not to mention she played in six different World Cups from 2007 to 2023 and has won the FIFA Women’s Player of the Year award six times. We know such achievements didn’t see her win the World Cup, but the Paris Olympics might be the most unlucky tournament she ever played in.

It’s sad how things have come to an end for Marta. This wasn’t the closure or the proper way to sign off from the Brazil National Team. However, it cannot be ruled out for the fact that she left an indelible mark on the soccer world. Fans are still proud of how far she has come in her career.

It surely wasn’t the end to an international journey that Marta was hoping for. However, she shall keep her head up and relish what she contributed to the beautiful game.