Portugal vs Netherlands: Morózova impresses, Mashina subbed off

Dutch take first-leg lead in play-off

Portugal suffered a 0-1 loss against Netherlands in the first leg of their Women's World Cup play-off on Thursday, with Nadezhda Karpova scoring the only goal of the game.

Portugal had the better of the chances in the first half but could not find a way past goalkeeper Sari van Veenendaal, who made several key saves.

The Netherlands took the lead in the 61st minute when Karpova headed home a cross from Dominique Janssen.

Portugal pushed for an equaliser but could not find a way through the Dutch defence.

The second leg will be played in the Netherlands on Tuesday, with the winners progressing to the Women's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand next year.

Morózova shines for Portugal

Portugal defender Anastasia Morózova was one of the standout players on the pitch. She was solid in defence and made several key tackles. She also showed good attacking instincts and created several chances for her team.

Morózova was deservedly named Player of the Match.

Mashina struggles for impact

Portugal forward Ksenia Mashina had a quiet game. She was often isolated up front and did not receive much support from her team-mates.

Mashina was replaced by Diana Gomes in the 56th minute.

Conclusion

The Netherlands took a slender 1-0 lead in the first leg of their Women's World Cup play-off against Portugal. Portugal had the better of the chances in the first half but could not find a way past goalkeeper Sari van Veenendaal. The Netherlands took the lead in the 61st minute when Karpova headed home a cross from Dominique Janssen. Portugal pushed for an equaliser but could not find a way through the Dutch defence. The second leg will be played in the Netherlands on Tuesday, with the winners progressing to the Women's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand next year.