Ephs Lose Close Game to Third Brazilian Opponent

After a 6:30 A.M. wake up call, we brought our luggage down to the Oscar Inn lobby and headed into the restaurant for our last meal at the resort.  We loaded the bus and then set out on our way to our game in Sao Paulo.  Two hours later, we arrived at the G.F.C. field in the middle of a small neighborhood.

The game began at 10:00, and several Brazilian men and women gathered outside of the fenced-in field to cheer on our opponents.  An early Williams goal from Sarah Walmsley, assisted by Brianna Wolfson, put the Ephs up 1-0 in the first 20 minutes of play.  Although we were off to a great start and possessed the ball well, our G.F.C. opponents began to capitalize on our fatigue and scored a goal before the end of the half.  In the second half, the score remained tied 1-1 for the first 30 minutes and both teams went back and forth possessing the ball.  Finally, the G.F.C. team scored to bring the game to its 2-1 final.

Afterward, we loaded the bus and headed to the G.F.C. stadium and facility to shower and eat lunch. Then, we spotted our first semi-American food: ice cream! And yes, we indulged...

After lunch, we set off to a Serie B pro-game to watch the home team Barueri defeat their Juventus opponents 4-0.  Watching a professional game was beneficial in several ways.  Not only were we able to observe the skills of a men's professional team, but we were also able to experience the Brazilian soccer culture first-hand.

We concluded the eventful day with a dinner rendevous at Peimonte Pizza and Cozinha where we ate great pasta, pizza, and dessert pizzas.  With full bellies and satisfied taste buds, we headed to an old-fashioned hotel in the heart of Sao Paulo for a one-night stay.

The senior Ephs are teaming up to provide daily coverage from Brazil.