US Women’s National Team Shines Again with 2-1 Victory Over Australia

The U.S. women’s national soccer team, also known as the USWNT, kept their winning streak alive at the 2024 Paris Olympics with a thrilling 2-1 victory against Australia in their final group stage match.

The game started with the U.S. team on the offensive, pushing the ball effectively across the pitch. They opened the scoring with a corner kick, where Trinity Rodman reacted quickly to a deflected ball from Sophia Smith and found the back of the net. After a tense VAR check, the goal was confirmed.

In the second half, the U.S. continued their strong performance but couldn’t extend their lead until the 77th minute when substitute Korbin Albert scored a stunning long-range goal, leaving Australia’s keeper Mackenzie Arnold with no chance.

Sophia Smith nearly made it 3-0 shortly after, with a shot that ricocheted off both posts but ultimately didn’t cross the goal line entirely, as verified by goal line technology.

With just a few minutes left, Australia managed to pull one back in stoppage time with a goal from Alanna Kennedy, but the U.S. held firm to secure all three points. Head coach Emma Hayes noted that while her team was in control, they need to be more careful in the future.

The USWNT is looking to build on their strong group stage performance as they prepare for a quarterfinal match against Japan on August 3. The squad has shown they can win in different styles, whether it’s by a narrow margin or a larger score line.

The attacking trio of Smith, Mallory Swanson, and Rodman has been instrumental, each consistently contributing to the team’s goals. With Japan, the team they will face in the knockout round, the Americans have a history of competitive matches.

The quarterfinals will take place at the Parc des Princes in Paris, and excitement is building as the USWNT aims to continue their journey towards another Olympic medal.