Grêmio's women's team clinched their first Brazil Ladies Cup championship on Sunday, December 22, 2024, after defeating Bahia 2-1 on penalties following a thrilling 1-1 draw at Estádio Canindé, São Paulo. The match not only secured the title for Grêmio but also served as a significant statement against racism, with both teams openly protesting against discrimination before the match.
The final unfolded under the pressure of the Brazilian summer heat, with both teams struggling to find their rhythm. Grêmio's breakthrough came at the 20-minute mark when Maria Dias headed in Dayana Rodríguez's precise cross, giving the Tricolor the lead. The first half saw few opportunities, with Grêmio failing to capitalize on their chances, and Bahia's Ju Oliveira being denied by Grêmio's goalkeeper, Vivi Holzel.
After halftime, the dynamics of the match began to shift. Despite maintaining pressure, Grêmio couldn't extend their lead. Instead, Bahia leveled the score at 20 minutes of the second half when Kaiuska found the net after receiving a well-placed pass from Luana.
With the score knotted at 1-1 at the end of regular time, the match proceeded to penalties. Here, Grêmio’s Vivi stole the show, saving three penalty kicks and allowing her team to triumph with precision shots from Dayana Rodríguez and Shashá.
The celebrations for Grêmio, who achieved this remarkable victory without losing any matches throughout the tournament, echoed throughout the stadium and beyond. The club not only takes home the coveted Ladies Cup trophy but also R$ 50,000 as the tournament prize. With this win, Grêmio joins São Paulo (2021), Flamengo (2022), and Inter (2023) as the champions of the Ladies Cup.
Before the match kicked off, both teams took to the field with banners reading "Não ao racismo" (No to Racism). Dani Barão, the right-back for Grêmio, highlighted their commitment to combat discrimination, stating, "We, from Grêmio, a club for everyone, raise our voices, and we will always fight against racism, both inside and outside the four lines." This demonstration, involving players raising their fists as a sign of solidarity, underscored the match's importance beyond mere victory.
This action gained added significance following recent incidents of racism during the Ladies Cup, particularly targeting Grêmio players and resulting from the actions of some River Plate players earlier in the tournament.
Overall, the match served as both a sporting achievement and social milestone, reflecting football's potential to bring attention to important global issues. Grêmio's historic win cements their status not only as champions on the field but also as advocates for equality and respect within the sport.
With this victory, Grêmio solidifies its place as the only club to have won both the Ladies Cup and the Sub-20 championship, marking their dominance and commitment to fostering talent and inclusivity within Brazilian football.
Congratulations to the athletes, management, and support staff for this remarkable accomplishment, paving the way for stronger performances and social justice initiatives moving forward.