USA 0-0 Sweden: Player ratings as USWNT eliminated from World Cup on penalties
The United States were eliminated from the Women's World Cup by Sweden on penalties (5-4) in the last 16 after a 0-0 stalemate during regular and extra time.
A dramatic ending saw Sophia Smith, Kelley O’Hara and Megan Rapinoe miss their attempts to hand the victory to Sweden.
Head coach Vlatko Andonosvki made formation changes to the starting lineup, opting for a 4-2-3-1 and introducing Emily Sonnett to the midfield for the first time this tournament. The adjustments served the American team well, appearing more connected and unified than in any previous performance. Sonnett’s inclusion in particular provided a much-needed structure in the midfield to stabilize the team as a whole and inspire offensive transitions.
Trinity Rodman and Lindsey Horan both saw opportunities at goal, but the US failed to convert any close efforts in the first half. The captain maintained the momentum following the half-time whistle, rocketing a shot before Swedish goalkeeper Zećira Mušović made a fantastic effort to send the ball wide. The USWNT continuously pushed toward the final third, but simply couldn't find the goal.
Mušović proved absolutely vital for Sweden, denying every opportunity by the American team to force extra time at Melbourne Rectangular Stadium. And her stellar performance continued through to penalties.
The Swedish finally made history by triumphing in the first set of penalties of the tournament to eliminate the reigning champions.
GK: Alyssa Naeher — 9/10 -Made saves throughout the match, penalties and scored her own. Cannot ask much more of her.
RB: Emily Fox - 8/10 - A solid performance, dependable at the back but aggressive pushing forward.
CB: Julie Ertz - 8/10 -Another great showing alongside Girma, crazy to think this
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