I didn't see the France-Brazil game, but a serious question -- Were Brazil better without Marta? She's the GOAT no doubt. But is she still really "Marta"? I would love to see her win a gold, but is she a helping her team or holding them back? In the Euros CRonaldo started every game but he was clearly past it. He added nothing to Portugal and in the end it cost them. Is the same thing happening here with Marta? Again, I haven't seen the games so my question is for those who have. Cheers.
No, Brazil was not 'better" without Marta. However they did do several things differently and they may have stumbled a bit because of the hole she left but they also, I think, may have improved because of having to play without her. I think they may end up a better team in their final match because of her absence. They have discovered a few things about other players that will help them in their last two matches. I do kind of doubt they can handle Spain without her but if they do manage to beat Spain they will be much improved for the final. Whoever advances to face Brazil in USA vs Germany match will have their hands full with a Brazil riding an emotional high from the return of Marta (If it is the actual final they will have that additional high as well) and a fully rested Marta with something to prove. I would not want to bet against Brazil it either the bronze or gold match. I believe the USA is truly better and Germany about even with Brazil but the extra emotional uplift from Marta's return could easily make them the better team on the day. But worrying about the match after next is a good way to lose focus and lose the current match. So I hope nobody is looking an extra match ahead.