Sundhage steps down as Brazil women's coach

Two-time Olympic winning football coach Pia Sundhage of Sweden has stepped down as boss of the Brazilian women's national team, officials said Wednesday, after a disappointing performance at the World Cup.

Sundhage, 63, had coached the "Selecao" since 2019, but faced criticism after Brazil were dumped out in the group stage at the tournament in Australia and New Zealand.

"The CBF will announce the new coaching team in the coming days, which will start the cycle toward the Paris Olympics in 2024 and women's World Cup" in 2027, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) said in a statement.

Sundhage had been under contract to coach the team until after the Paris Games.

The 2023 World Cup was the last chance for Brazil's women's team to win the crown with legendary veteran Marta, 37, who never hoisted the trophy despite being widely considered one of the greatest players in history.

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Brazil started strong in Group F with a 4-0 win over Panama, but then lost to eventual group winners France 2-1 and were sent home by a 0-0 draw with Jamaica, who advanced.

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