VALENCIENNES, France, June 18 (Xinhua) -- Brazil women's football legend Marta scored a record 17th World Cup finals goal to award her team a place in the last 16 with a 1-0 win over Italy on Tuesday.

The sixth-time world player of the year converted a penalty kick in the 74th minute to make herself the all-time leading scorer at men's or women's World Cups, overtaking retired Germany striker Miroslav Klose who has 16 under his name.

Italy, who had qualified for the knockout stage prior to the match, created two good scoring chances through Barbara Bonansea.

Brazil, who hit the bar through Andressinha's free kick in the first half, gained upper hand after break.

As Australia crushed Jamaica 4-1 at almost the same time, the top three through Group C collected the same six points. Italy are on top with scoring seven goals and conceding two, followed by Ausralia with a record of 8-5 and Brazil with 6-3.

The top two finshers of the six groups plus the four best third placers will advance to the round of 16 knockout stage.

The respective opponents at the final 16 remain undecided.