Shocking Upset: Sweden Stuns USA in Nail-biting World Cup Clash, Makes Quarter-finals on Penalties
The USA suffer their earliest Women's World Cup exit, losing 5-4 on penalties to Sweden Despite dominating the game, they were thwarted by goalkeeper Zecira Musovic in a goalless 120 minutes
The USA experienced their earliest elimination from a Women's World Cup, exiting in the last 16 after a penalty shootout loss of 5-4 against Sweden. The match, which ended goalless after 120 minutes, showcased Sweden's goalkeeper Zecira Musovic repeatedly denying the USA's scoring attempts. This unexpected clash between two formidable teams in the knockout rounds marked their first-ever meeting at a World Cup, thanks to Sweden's flawless group stage performance contrasted against the USA's lackluster performance.
However, the group dynamics drastically changed as Sweden only managed to land a single shot on target throughout the entire 120 minutes of play. Despite their efforts, the USA was unable to breach the formidable Musovic, the Swedish goalkeeper, who made a series of remarkable saves, ultimately leading Sweden into the quarterfinals.
Ironically, Sweden appeared to be on the brink of elimination during the penalty shootout. Yet, a miss from Megan Rapinoe - possibly her last World Cup appearance - and Sophia Smith forced the kicks into sudden death.
After Kelley O'Hara hit the post, Arsenal's Lina Hurtig stepped up, with her penalty being scooped out of the goal by USA goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher.
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Swedish players look at the VAR graphic of their winning penalty against USA
In a crucial moment of the game, it was uncertain if the ball had fully crossed the line. Referee Stephanie Frappart took thirty tense seconds to confirm that the ball had indeed crossed the line by the smallest of margins, with mere millimeters. This narrow victory propelled Sweden forward, as they advanced to face Japan in the quarter-finals. It is a devastating outcome for the reigning champions, the USA, who despite putting up a stronger performance, will not be able to secure their third consecutive World Cup title.
How Sweden edged past the USA
: Perspective on the Penalty Shootout
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Lina Hurtig celebrates her winning penalty against the USA
With much on the line for two of the three top-ranked sides in the world, it was a tentative start in Melbourne.
Trinity Rodman seized the first major opportunity of the game in the 27th minute. Angeldal's errant pass was intercepted by the forward, who swiftly navigated into the penalty area. Despite her expertly executed strike, Musovic made an impressive diving save - an early indication of what was to come.
The United States came dangerously close once more shortly after. Horan leapt to connect with a corner, but her header glanced off the crossbar. Musovic, with her arm extended, was also ascending and would have likely denied the goal.
After the break, Horan had another excellent opportunity but was thwarted by an extraordinary reflex save from Musovic. Emily Fox's cross traversed the area, eventually reaching the USA captain. However, her low shot was deflected by the Sweden goalkeeper.
Musovic was called into action once more just after the 60th minute. A lofted ball reached Smith on the right side of the area, but her poor control enabled the Sweden goalkeeper to advance and suffocate the chance before she could unleash a shot.
The USA experienced several promising moments but failed to capitalize on them. It was not until the 85th minute that Sweden, through substitute Sofia Jackobsson, managed to register their first shot on target. However, Jackobsson's attempt went straight into the goalkeeper's hands.
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Zecira Musovic made a string of sensational saves to deny the USA
Sweden's relentless defense continued to foil the USA, resulting in the game going into extra time. Similar to the preceding 90 minutes, the reigning champions found themselves continuously thwarted by Musovic and Sweden.
During the initial 15 minutes, Musovic's outstretched hand deflected Lynn Williams' cross, leaving Rapinoe out of reach. Additionally, Frida Rolfo witnessed Horan's attempt at a shot being blocked.
United States at the FIFA Women's World Cup
| Year | Finish |
| 1991 | Champions |
| 1995 | Third place |
| 1999 | Champions |
| 2003 | Third place |
| 2007 | Third place |
| 2011 | Runners up |
| 2015 | Champions |
| 2019 | Champions |
| 2023 | Round of 16 |
The game was set up perfectly for penalties in hindsight, resulting in a dramatic conclusion to an outstanding spectacle. The first six penalties were successfully converted by their respective takers, but soon after, the misses began to accumulate, intensifying the tension.
In between Nathalie Bjorn and Rebecka Blomqvist's missed penalties, Rapinoe launched her shot wide of the target, mirroring Smith's identical miss.
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The shootout continued with additional penalties, bringing the match to sudden death. O'Hara then stepped up for her turn, joining Kristie Mewis, who entered the field in the 120th minute, to take a penalty kick. However, O'Hara's half-hearted attempt hit the crossbar, leaving Sweden with the opportunity to secure victory by scoring their next penalty.
Horan: So many young players coming through
USA captain Lindsey Horan:Arsenal's Hurtig made her move, unleashing a powerful shot that demanded Naeher's diving effort to prevent it from finding the back of the net. Both teams fervently argued their case, leading to an extensive review by VAR and goal line technology. Ultimately, Frappart's signal confirmed the validity of the penalty, evoking a mix of anguish and jubilation for both sides.
The team's performance deserves utmost pride and recognition. A great deal of effort was invested in reaching this level, which involved adapting our strategy and playing in a manner that truly represents our distinct style. We displayed confidence and successfully executed our game plan.
Throughout the match, we showcased a delightful brand of football that was captivating and full of excitement. We continuously generated opportunities; however, regrettably, we were unable to convert them into goals.
'Soccer can be cruel'
USA coach Vlatko Andonovski: "The ability to progress from the group stage despite not delivering our best performance and then witnessing this remarkable turnaround exemplifies the essence of this team. We are fortunate to have an influx of immensely talented young players who are truly excelling.""We received criticism for our style of play, but today we showcased our determination and resilience. However, soccer can be merciless at times. It was unfortunate to witness the match reaching the penalty shootout stage and concluding with such confusion at the end."
Eriksson: We showed heart
Sweden defender Magda Eriksson:"We're so happy right now. I don't know how we managed to stay in this game.
What's next?
In the quarter-finals, Sweden will go up against Japan, who emerged victorious against Norway on Saturday. Their anticipated match is scheduled for Friday, kicking off at 8.30am.What is the schedule?
What is the schedule?
During the round of 16, a total of eight games will be played across Australia and New Zealand. This exciting phase of the tournament will take place from August 5 to August 8.Looking ahead, the quarter-finals are set to take place on August 11 and 12. Wellington, Auckland, Brisbane, and Sydney will be the host cities for these crucial matches.
The first semi-final is scheduled for August 15 in Auckland, while the second semi-final will be held on August 16 at the Accor Stadium in Sydney. The final match will also take place at the Accor Stadium on August 20. Additionally, a third-place play-off is set to be played in Brisbane on August 19, the day before the final.
