Sophia Smith's precise aim secured a dramatic 1-0 victory for the USA in the women's football semifinals at the Paris 2024 Olympics on Tuesday.
In a tense match that extended into extra time, Smith broke the scoreless deadlock just five minutes into the additional period, deftly maneuvering past defender Felicitas Rauch and German goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger. This pivotal goal not only earned the Americans a place in the gold medal game but also marked their fifth appearance in the Olympic women's football final.
Under the guidance of new coach Emma Hayes, the USA team remained undefeated throughout the tournament in France. They are now set to face Brazil, who triumphed over Spain with a 4-2 scoreline in the late game, in the final showdown scheduled for Saturday in Paris.
Germany, after a strong performance in the semifinals, will compete against Spain for the bronze medal in Lyon on Friday.
Smith, celebrating her third goal of the tournament, shared her exhilaration after the match. "I saw like a little opening of net and I was just like, 'I've got to put it there. Just put it there,'" she said. "It was a good feeling. I know I had a few other chances this game that I should have put away. But sometimes one is all it takes."
The American team demonstrated resilience and teamwork, with goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher making a crucial save in the final moments of the second extra period, ensuring the USA's victory.
Mallory Swanson emphasized the importance of maintaining their focus as they head into the final. "The goal is closer but the job's not done yet," she stated. "I think that obviously we're in a great position. You take this win and we're on a high right now, but it's important just to stay steady with everything we're doing. Just stay steady."
This victory is a significant comeback for the USA team, who missed out on the finals in the last two Olympic tournaments, being eliminated in the quarterfinals in Rio de Janeiro 2016 and relegated to the bronze-medal match in Tokyo three years ago.
Reference(s):
USA beat Germany 1-0 to make women's football final at Paris 2024
cgtn.com
