Rio 2016: Brazil´s Barbara defends Sweden after ´cowards´ comment

Brazil goalkeeper Barbara leapt to the defence of Sweden following Hope Solo s cowards comments, despite the host nation s defeat in the semi-finals.

United States shot-stopper Solo labelled Sweden s approach as cowardly after they knocked the defending Olympic champions out of the women s football tournament on penalties in Rio last week. 

Sweden then managed to eliminate Brazil in the semi-finals of the competition on Tuesday, sending the hosts out after another tense shoot-out. 

While Brazil had the better of the opportunities throughout, they were unable to break down a resolute Sweden defence, and Barbara had no issues with the way the Scandinavians set out to play. 

She said:  Sweden stayed back and played defence with all 11 players in the …