Australia 1-3 Brazil: Matildas bid farewell to retiring legend Clare Polkinghorne but can’t secure the win for their captain as Amanda Guitierres’ brace sets visitors up for victory in fractious game

There were emotional scenes on Thursday evening as Clare Polkinghorne took to the Suncorp Stadium pitch for the final time in her international career.

It was not the result the Matildas legend had hoped for in her final international appearance at the iconic Brisbane arena, as Australia succumbed to a 3-1 defeat by Brazil.

Despite that, there was still plenty to celebrate, with fans and teammates all paying tribute to the 35-year-old who is about to hang up her boots.

Polkinghorne stepped onto the Suncorp pitch to a wave of noise, with the Brisabane native just holding back tears as fans waved banners in honor of the Matildas all-time great.

“A few quick words from me because we have a game in hand,” the former Polkinghorne said in a speech ahead of kick-off.

“It’s so special for me to be here and celebrate in front of my home fans, in a city I grew up in and in a stadium I absolutely love.

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1732797656 432 Australia 1 3 Brazil Matildas bid farewell to retiring legend Clare

“This team has been everything to me. It’s been quite a journey. And I’m very grateful for everything everyone has done along the way.

“Thank you very much, and let’s keep going,” she added.

Unfortunately for Polkinghorne, the Matildas were unable to secure victory.

Brazil’s Amanda Gutierres silenced the raucous crowd early on, breaking away from the Australian defense and firing the ball past goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold from a tight angle.

1732797657 117 Australia 1 3 Brazil Matildas bid farewell to retiring legend Clare

1732797658 174 Australia 1 3 Brazil Matildas bid farewell to retiring legend Clare

1732797660 491 Australia 1 3 Brazil Matildas bid farewell to retiring legend Clare

The Palmeiras striker hit back five minutes later, picking up a pass from Aline Gomes after a counter-attack and sliding the ball into the back of the net again.

Caitlin Foord fired the ball into the back of the net just before half-time to give Australia hope of a second-half comeback, but the Matildas slumped to a 3–1 defeat after Giovana Queiroz scored a third for Brazil.

More to follow…