As the reigning silver medalists from the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, Mariafe and Taliqua were arguably the favourite heading into the match, aiming to go one step further in Paris. 

However Brazilian pair Ana Patricia Silva Ramos and Eduarda Santos Lisboa were ready to dampen their Aussie’s day, looking strong with a completely clean sheet coming into the semi-final, having not dropped a set since the beginning of the Olympic campaign. 

Brazil came out firing and were quick to capitalise on the Aussie’s early jitters, quickly out to a 8-4 lead. Some great rallies and stunning blocks kept the capacity crowd on the edge of their seat throughout the first set, one of the loudest The Eiffel Tower Stadium had experienced of the tournament. But the Aussies fought back and tied the score at 18-18. 

While the Brazilian pair kept Mariafe and Taliqua on their toes, they were ready for whatever was thrown at them and the Aussies took the first set 22-20. 

“You always wanna be in the final,” Mariafe said. 

“Obviously, we have another opportunity tomorrow to get on that podium. So we'll take the positives out of this match and the momentum and we'll come back stronger. 

“You give it all, you go out there and fight for every point. We did that really well. So we'll just take that for tomorrow as well.” 

Momentum continued for the Aussies into the second set, and despite some early errors, the lead swung back and forth. But Brazil fought back, with incredible rallies and took a 13-9 lead. 

Refusing to let the Aussies take a clean win and wanting to make a statement after their ninth ranking in Tokyo 2020, Brazil dominated the second set, maintaining their lead and won, 21-15, forcing a third and deciding set.  

“I think it was just little small moments.” Taliqua said. 

“There were just those little small moments that didn't go our way. We definitely created opportunities. That will be the difference for tomorrow. 

“You know, when you are down to the final four every team is incredibly good. It's just those little moments, and, unfortunately, they didn't turn in our way. It's the beauty of sport. You can play the best game of your life and you can still lose.” 

In an epic battle, the scores stayed neck and neck into the third set, one that was filled with dives and spectacular action from both sides. With Mariafe and Taliqua putting their bodies on the line with the score 12-12, it was anyone's game. 

Showcasing their dominance throughout the tournament, Brazil managed to rise to the occasion and were too strong. The Aussie pair fell in the final set 15-12, losing the match 2-1.

The tournament is not over for the Australians, as they now need to quickly regroup for the bronze medal match where they face Suisse pair Tanja Huberli and Nina Brunner on Saturday 10 August at 5am AEST.

Shannon Knaus