The reigning champions, USA, suffered an unexpected departure from the World Cup in a penalty shootout, amidst a buzzing crowd of over 27,000 spectators in Melbourne. Sweden’s Lina Hurtig’s triumphant penalty kick, complemented by the spectacular goalkeeping of Zecira Musovic, sealed their passage to the quarterfinals. This marked the first time in the tournament’s history that the USA faced an elimination so early.
The American team led by Vlatko Andonovski had been subjected to harsh criticism in the days preceding this clash. Disappointing performances against the Netherlands and Portugal spurred questions about the team’s spirit and Andonovski’s tactical acumen. However, in Melbourne’s chilly weather, the USA demonstrated an improved form but failed to capitalize on their domination of the match, which ended in a 0-0 draw even after extra time.
Key Changes and Performance
The suspension of creative maestro Rose Lavelle added to the concerns despite the USA’s commendable World Cup history. This predicament required Andonovski to make two tactical changes with Emily Sonnett stepping in and upcoming talent Trinity Rodman replacing Lynn Williams.
| Players Out | Players In |
| Rose Lavelle | Emily Sonnett |
| Lynn Williams | Trinity Rodman |
They faced the Swedish team, one of the three sides boasting an unblemished record of victories in the tournament. Sweden’s coach, Peter Gerhardsson, reverted to his reliable starting lineup that had previously orchestrated a crushing 5-0 defeat of Italy. The attacking combination of Stina Blackstenius, Fridolina Rolfö, and Johanna Rytting Kaneryd were all back on the pitch.
Resilient Spirit and Relentless Pressure
The USA team, unaccustomed to doubts and dismissals, showed their determination right from the outset. Evidently fueled by the past week’s commentary, they displayed a burst of energy and intent, forcing Sweden into unexpected blunders. Smith and Rodman successfully exploited spaces along the flanks, their youthful fervor propelling the USA forward.
The USA exerted significant pressure on Sweden during the first half, with Musovic’s alertness and last-minute tackles being the only barrier to their scoring. Captain Lindsay Horan, well-known for her tenacity, took advantage of her skills to almost outdo Sweden’s set-piece expertise, but her header ricocheted off the top of the goalpost. Despite their clear dominance, the USA couldn’t secure a breakthrough, leaving a ray of hope for Sweden.
Musovic’s Masterclass and Shift in Momentum
The second half witnessed no decline in the USA’s vitality. Even as Sweden adopted a more aggressive approach, the USA persisted in their offensive efforts. But it was Musovic’s outstanding goalkeeping that kept the scores level, occasionally acting as a single-handed blockade.
The removal of Rodman, arguably the most impressive American player, due to an illness earlier in the week allowed Sweden to catch their breath. The substitute Sofia Jakobsson seized this opportunity, forcing Alyssa Naeher into a rare save with her intricate footwork. Musovic continued her heroics at the other end, denying Alex Morgan at close range, pushing the match into extra time.
Tensions Mount and Penalties Decide
Sweden began the extra time with a clear intent but the game soon fell back into its familiar pattern, with USA continuing to create chances. As fatigue started to creep in, the prospect of a penalty shootout became more apparent.
The shootout was replete with suspense as Megan Rapinoe, Smith, and O’Hara all missed their chances. Hurtig, the substitute, stepped up to seal the 5-4 victory for Sweden, setting up a quarter-final clash with Japan in Auckland on Friday. Musovic’s brilliance throughout the match was highlighted, with her phenomenal stops denying Morgan and Williams again. The near-save by Naeher wasn’t enough to stop Hurtig’s winning shot from crossing the line.
Match Statistics: Sweden vs USA
The match between Sweden and USA was fiercely contested, with numerous attempts and strategic play from both sides. Here is a detailed breakdown of the match’s vital statistics:
| Statistic | Sweden | USA |
| Expected Goals (xG) | 0.85 | 1.22 |
| Ball Possession | 41% | 59% |
| Shots | 7 | 21 |
| Shots on Target | 1 | 11 |
| Shots off Target | 1 | 7 |
| Blocked Shots | 5 | 3 |
| Free Kicks | 15 | 16 |
| Corner Kicks | 3 | 9 |
| Offsides | 1 | 4 |
| Goalkeeper Saves | 11 | 1 |
| Fouls | 15 | 11 |
| Yellow Cards | 1 | 1 |
| Total Passes | 447 | 609 |
| Completed Passes | 346 | 493 |
| Attacks | 134 | 171 |
| Dangerous Attacks | 43 | 73 |
The statistics reflect the competitiveness of the game, with USA demonstrating greater ball possession and significantly more shots. However, Sweden managed to withstand the pressure, securing a memorable victory in the penalty shootout.
This match will go down in World Cup history for its high stakes, tense penalty shootout, and unexpected result. While the USA will have to wait for the next World Cup for redemption, Sweden’s journey continues, fortified by their dramatic win.
