Washington, D.C. (My Sportsbook) - Marta's 14th-minute penalty finish gave the Brazilian women's national side a 1-0 halftime lead over South Korea Sunday in Group B World Cup action at RFK Stadium.

The Koreans, World Cup debutantes, ran tirelessly at the outset, chasing down loose balls -- but it was the more experienced Brazil side who organized and went on the attack early.

Brazil, which has never lost an opening match in the World Cup, was awarded the penalty after Kim handled the ball in the area. Marta then fired home the spot kick into the back of the net to give the South Americans the lead.

Katia and Maicon did well to cause fits in the Korean back line, as Katia got in behind the defense in the 26th minute before firing the ball wide.

Korean 'keeper Kim did well to smother a chance from Katia eight minutes earlier after fine work from the Brazilian that led to a shot in the box.

The Brazilians had Korea chasing in the middle of the field, but their loose style wreaked some havoc in the back, as Korea eagerly awaited a mistake to capitalize on.

Goalscorer Marta played her role as pesky midfielder well, causing the Koreans headaches as time wore down in the first half.

MATCH NOTES: Brazil has featured in all four Women's World Cups, advancing to the semifinals in 1999.