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.

A week after England won the UEFA Women’s Euro final, Brazil also retained their continental title in a dramatic denouement decided by a penalty shoot-out.

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.