LONDON: Great Britain's women saw their maiden Olympic football tournament end with a 2-0 quarter-final defeat by Canada in Coventry.

Just days after beating Brazil in front of a raucous crowd of more than 70,000 -- a British record for a women's match -- at Wembley Stadium, they were unable to reach the same heights against a Canada side coached by Englishman John Herdman.

Jonelle Filigno gave Canada an early lead before Christine Sinclair doubled their advantage before half-time with a curling free-kick.

Canada's win set up a semi-final clash with neighbours and reigning Olympic champions the United States at Manchester United's Old Trafford on Monday.

Britain's Jill Scott while disappointed with the defeat said the experience of competing at an Olympics would remain with her for ever

"I have loved every moment. I will look back in years to come at what has been a very special time in my life."

In the group stages, GB enjoyed their finest result in their brief history as a women's football nation when qualified for the last eight by beating female soccer superpower Brazil 1-0.

Stephanie Houghton maintained her record of scoring in all the team's Olympic matches as she rounded goalkeeper Andreia in the second minute at Wembley for what turned out to be the game's only goal.

"To play in front of 70,000 people, you couldn't dream of a better day," Hougton said afterwards. -- AGENCIES