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Brazil set up clash with US after beating Australia

A 75th minute goal by Cristiane gave Brazil a 3-2 win over Australia yesterday and the first berth in the semi-finals of the women's World Cup.

Cristiane swiveled onto a right-foot shot that rocketed into the top right corner of the net -- off passes from Marta and Daniela -- for her fourth goal in this World Cup.

Other goals by Formiga and Marta saw Brazil set up a semi-final with the US in Hangzhou on Thursday.

Brazil led 2-0 early in the match, but Australia rallied to level the score with goals by Lisa De Vanna and Lauren Colthorpe, setting the stage for Cristiane's winner.

Brazil took the lead in the fourth minute when Formiga placed a long-range shot precisely over Australian goalkeeper Melissa Barbieri.

Kate McShea had only come on when she gave away a foul on Renata Costa that was adjudged a penalty. TV replays showed initial contact between the pair was well outside the penalty area.

Marta converted the spotkick to score her fifth goal of the tournament.

Brazil were in total control, but gifted Australia a way back into the match when an errant backpass in the 36th minute was easily intercepted by Lisa De Vanna, who rounded the goalkeeper and rolled the ball into an empty net for 2-1.

After a slow start to the second half, Australia equalized in the 68th. A long freekick from the left was floated into the penalty area where rightback Lauren Colthorpe got in a glancing header ahead of Brazil 'keeper Andreia, who charged off her line but did not reach the ball.

Brazil restored their lead in the 75th minute, on Cristiane's winner.
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