Dzsenifer Marozsan curled in a stunning goal in Germany's 2-1 win over Sweden ©Getty Images

Germany claimed the gold medal in the women’s football tournament at the Olympics for the first time after beating Sweden 2-1 in the final at the Maracanã in Rio de Janeiro.

The three-time bronze medallists were the dominant team in the opening stages of the match, with Melanie Leupolz directing a header over the Swedish crossbar from close range.

Sweden could count themselves extremely fortunate to head into half-time level after their goalkeeper Hedvig Lindahl parried Leonie Maier's shot into the six-yard box.

Anja Mittag appeared certain to turn the rebound into the Swedish net, only to shoot wide of the target.

Germany eventually got themselves the lead they deserved when Dzsenifer Marozsan sent a curling effort into the top corner in the opening minutes of the second half.

Their advantage was doubled when a Marozsan free kick hit the post, only to be smashed into her own net by Sweden’s Linda Sembrant.

Swedish hopes of a comeback were raised when Stina Blackstenius pulled a goal back from Kosovare Asslani’s excellent cross after 66 minutes.

They were unable to build on the effort and Germany comfortably held on for a 2-1 victory.

Germany became the third country to win the women's Olympic football tournament with victory at Rio 2016 ©Getty Images
Germany became the third country to win the women's Olympic football tournament with victory at Rio 2016 ©Getty Images

"I'm very proud of my team,” said Marozsan after the victory.

“It's amazing, unexplainable.

“It is a wonderful feeling.

“It was very motivating for us that the fans were cheering for Sweden."

There were contrasting emotions for the two coaches as Germany’s Silvia Neid was able to celebrate her final match before retirement, but disappointment for Pia Sundhage, who had coached the United States to gold at both Beijing 2008 and London 2012.

Germany became the third nation to win women’s football gold since its introduction at Atlanta 1996.

The United States have four titles and Norway were winners at Sydney 2000.

Canada beat hosts Brazil 2-1 in the bronze medal match ©Getty Images
Canada beat hosts Brazil 2-1 in the bronze medal match ©Getty Images

Brazil were denied a medal in front of their home fans after they were beaten by Canada in the battle for bronze.

Deanne Rose gave Canada the lead after 25 minutes of the contest, with their advantage doubled by Christine Sinclair seven minutes into the second half.

Beatriz gave Brazil hopes of a comeback after pulling one back in the 79th minute but the host country were unable to find an equaliser in the closing minutes.

Brazilian attentions will now be firmly focused on whether their men’s team can win Olympic gold for the first time when they face Germany at the Maracanã tomorrow.