Marta's Absence in the Paris Olympics Final

Brazilian soccer legend Marta was absent from the starting lineup in the gold medal match against the United States at the Paris Olympics, following her suspension. Marta, a six-time world player of the year, was available as a substitute as she plays her final international tournament. The United States fielded its second youngest team ever in a gold medal match.

In a surprising turn of events, Brazilian soccer legend Marta did not start in Brazil's gold medal clash against the United States at the Paris Olympics. The six-time world player of the year was benched following her suspension incurred during earlier rounds.

Marta, 38, is making her sixth and final Olympic appearance, and despite being available as a substitute, she was replaced by Adriana, who captained the team. This marks a significant chapter in Marta's illustrious career, as she heads towards retirement from international tournaments.

On the other side, US coach Emma Hayes made a strategic change to her lineup, introducing Korbin Albert in place of Rose Lavelle. The average age of the US team was 26.7 years, making it the second youngest squad to compete in a gold medal match, following the 1996 team.

(With inputs from agencies.)