2023-08-01 09:42:33
AUCKLAND, New Zealand (AP) — Megan Rapinoe’s energy as she burst onto the field in the second half wasn’t enough to motivate a listless United States team, which advanced to the round of 16 of the Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand on Tuesday. despite a goalless draw once morest Portugal.
The result helped the United States avoid what would have been the tournament’s big upset and secured their place in the next round. The Americans were hesitant in a clash in which they started as clear favorites.
The United States, the most decorated team in the World Cup with four titles, have never lost in the group stage, and this is the first time they have managed just one victory in this phase of the championship.
The fate of the Americans also depended on the result of the match between the Netherlands and Vietnam that was being played simultaneously in Dunedin. The Netherlands crushed Vietnam 7-0 and finished first in Group E, while Portugal and Vietnam bid farewell to the top national team competition.
The Americans, current two-time world champions, will try to achieve an unprecedented feat: lift the third consecutive World Cup.
Lynn Williams had the opportunity to open the scoring following 14 minutes with a header that ended up in the gloves of the Portuguese goalkeeper, Inés Pereira. Although the United States had possession and enjoyed the best chances, none were able to materialize.
Rose Lavelle was shown a yellow card following 38 minutes, the second of the group stage, and will miss the next game.
The United States brought danger back into the net in the 57th minute thanks to a free kick, but Alex Morgan’s header went well over the bar. Ana Capeta was regarding to turn the game around with a goal in discount, but her shot hit the right post of the US goal.
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