Double defending champions, the Americans were eliminated on Sunday by Sweden, in the round of 16 of the 2023 World Cup, after a thrilling penalty shootout.
It had never happened before. Never had the United States been taken out so early in a World Cup. But this Sunday in Australia, Sweden managed the incredible feat of eliminating the double defending champions. Yet very largely dominated throughout the meeting, the Swedes were above all able to count on their goalkeeper, Zecira Musovic, to stay alive and achieve this famous penalty shootout which smiled on them (0-0, 5-4 on pens) . In the next round, Sweden will face Japan.
Like the first period, the Americans dominated head and shoulders, without ever managing to find the fault. 66% possession in the first act, five shots to one, but only two on target. In the second half, a slight awakening from Sweden, but still more chances for the USA. Again without results on the scoreboard. Enough to go into overtime.
Valid Frappart
And always the same scenario with Alex Morgan and his much more offensive (eight shots to one). Not enough, however, to deceive the vigilance of the impassable Musovic. And it is finally after a last shot on goal from Lina Hurtig, badly stopped by Alyssa Naeher, that the Swedes will scream their joy.
That winning feeling. 🇸🇪 pic.twitter.com/21g6HzDnVi
— FIFA Women’s World Cup (@FIFAWWC) August 6, 2023
After Madame Frappart, at the whistle of the meeting, called on the VAR to confirm that Hurtig’s ball had indeed completely crossed the line, the curtain fell on this meeting. This Sunday, the feat was Swedish and American legend Morgan Rapinoe played his last World Cup match.
