In a thrilling and tense encounter at the Women’s World Cup, Sweden caused a major upset by defeating the United States in a sudden-death penalty shootout, securing their place in the quarter-finals. The reigning champions faced their earliest-ever exit from the tournament, leaving fans astonished.
Throughout the regulation 90 minutes and extra-time, the USA dominated the game, but the breakthrough proved elusive due to the outstanding performance of Swedish goalkeeper Zecira Musovic. Musovic made several remarkable saves to keep her side alive in the competition.
With the deadlock still intact after extra-time, the match went to penalties, intensifying the tension on the field. Both teams had their moments of joy and despair during the shootout. Sweden’s Nathalie Bjorn and the USA’s Megan Rapinoe were the first to miss their kicks, setting the tone for a nerve-wracking contest.
The USA seemed to gain an advantage when Rebecka Blomqvist’s effort was saved, but Sophia Smith’s shot for the USA went wide, keeping the balance. When Kelley O’Hara hit the post, the pressure was on Sweden’s Lina Hurtig to secure victory for her team. After a VAR review confirmed her kick had crossed the line, Sweden emerged triumphant in a dramatic conclusion.
The outcome of the match means that the tournament bids farewell to its top-ranked sides, following Germany’s early exit in the group stage. Sweden, now considered one of the chief frontrunners as the world number three, faces the 2011 champions Japan in the quarter-final.
While it was a joyous moment for the Swedish team, the USA suffered a bitter blow. The loss marked an inglorious end for Megan Rapinoe, the Golden Boot winner at the 2019 World Cup, who announced her retirement at the end of the season. The four-time champions entered the tournament with high expectations but failed to meet them during the group stage, securing just one win against Vietnam.
The thrilling match showcased the determination and talent of both teams, but it was Sweden’s resolve that ultimately led them to a historic victory. The quarter-final clash against Japan promises to be an enthralling encounter as both teams vie for a place in the Women’s World Cup semi-finals.
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