Opponent watch: USA win Tournament of Nations after big win over Brazil

The USA have pipped the Westfield Matildas to the Tournament of Nations title after a thumping 4-1 win over Brazil.

After Australia beat Japan 2-0 on Friday morning (AEST), the USA needed a two-goal win over the South Americans to leapfrog Australia on the ladder.

WRAP: Westfield Matildas too good for Japan

And the host nation got off to the worst possible start, conceding an own goal inside 16 minutes when a cross from the left was spectacularly deflected into her own net by Tierna Davidson.

With the Westfield Matildas squad watching on from the stands inside Toyota Park, the USA eventually overpowered a tiring Brazil.

The Americans continually broke down a flimsy Brazilian defence, equalising before the break via Rose Lavelle.

And Jill Ellis’ side went on with the job after the break, getting in front early in the second half when Julie Ertz was on hand to finish off some great individual play by Tobin Heath.

Still needing another goal to draw level on goal difference with Australia – but ahead on goals scored – the USA turned the screws on Brazil.

Heath went from provider to scorer just after the hour mark, blasting a shot into the bottom corner after being teed up by skipper Alex Morgan.

Morgan then ensured it would be the USA’s title, getting on the end of Megan Rapinoe’s free-kick 13 minutes from the end to wrap-up the title.

While the Westfield Matildas had to settle for second spot this time around, they have still never been beaten in six games at the Tournament of Nations.