The Women's Copa America in Ecuador ended with a thrilling final as Brazil edged Colombia in an eight-goal spectacle to win their ninth title but logistical challenges and half-empty stadiums showed the hurdles that face South American women's football.

QUITO, Aug 2 (Reuters) - Brazil successfully defended their Women's Copa America crown by defeating Colombia 5-4 in a shootout on Saturday to claim their ninth continental title after a roller-coaster final in Quito ended 4-4.

Unfortunately for Colombia, they have not had much success against Brazil. Colombia fell to Brazil, 1-0, in last year’s final, and has finished second to the powerhouse in three of the past four Copas Americas. Overall, Brazil is 11-2-0 against Colombia, with the two sides coming to a draw in the group stage.