Brazil successfully defended their Women's Copa America crown by defeating Colombia 5-4 in a shoot-out on Saturday to claim their ninth continental title after a roller-coaster final in Quito ended 4-4.

The decider at the Estadio Rodrigo Paz Delgado saw Colombia take the lead three times, only for Brazil to respond on each occasion.

Linda Caicedo gave Colombia the lead in the 25th minute before Angelina equalised from the spot just before halftime.

Tarciane's own goal put Colombia back in front in the 69th minute before Amanda Gutierres levelled the game again in the 80th minute.

Mayra Ramirez restored Colombia's lead two minutes from time, only for Brazil great Marta to equalise deep into stoppage time and then score again in extra time.

Colombia's Leicy Santos then made it 4-4 with a stunning free kick to force a penalty shoot-out.

The penalty shoot-out mirrored the drama of the match, with Colombia taking the early advantage after Angelina's miss.

However, when Manuela Pavi failed to convert and goalkeeper Lorena saved Leicy Santos' effort Brazil held the advantage.

Marta had the chance to seal victory, but Katherine Tapia's save sent the shoot-out to sudden death, where Carabali's miss finally handed Brazil their ninth continental title. (Reuters)