Heartbreaking Exit for Defending Champ USA From Women’s World Cup
Swedes Knock Americans in Dramatic Shootout
In a tense showdown that had hearts racing, Sweden emerged victorious in a thrilling penalty shootout against the United States, knocking out the two-time defending champions from the Women’s World Cup. The match concluded in a 0-0 draw after extra time, leading to a dramatic shootout that ended with Sweden prevailing 5-4 in Melbourne.
Stars and Stripes Go Down in Flames
The fate of the match hung in the balance as the video assistant referee (VAR) played a crucial role in determining the outcome. Referee Stéphanie Frappart reviewed Lina Hurtig’s penalty kick, ruling it as a goal despite the US goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher’s efforts to save it. The electrifying shootout saw the Swedes knock Americans and celebrate a hard-fought 5-4 victory on penalties, while the US squad -one of the World Cup favorites- was left in tears as their journey in the tournament came to an end, marking the earliest exit ever for the reigning champions.
The United States, known for their dominance in women’s soccer, faced a formidable challenge in Sweden’s resilient defense. With the absence of goals after 120 minutes of play, the game was decided by the high-stakes drama of penalty kicks, thus bringing down their World Cup team rankings.
Legend Rapinoe’s Final World Cup Match
Megan Rapinoe, a legendary figure in women’s soccer, played her final World Cup match for the United States. Emotions ran high as Rapinoe, who announced her retirement after the 2023 National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) season, took part in the dramatic encounter.
Her penalty kick stopped in the shootout, Rapinoe’s remarkable career, marked by Olympic gold and two World Cup titles, still leaves an indelible mark on the sport in a match where nobody thought to see the Swedes knock Americans and hang them up to dry.
Join us at Point Spreads for more tales of soccer glory!
Can’t get enough? Here’s more!
- FIFA Women’s World Cup Round of 16: France vs. Morocco Betting Odds
- England’s Lionesses Quarterfinal Victory in Penalty Shootout
- Allan Saint-Maximin Exits Newcastle United, Joins Saudi Pro League
- Cubs Playoff Odds Skyrocket, Take Bellinger Off the Trade Table!
- Juventus Banned From UEFA, Chelsea Fined Millions
