With a goal in the 95th minute, forward Sophia Smith gave the U.S. 1-0 victory over Germany secured a place for the Women’s National Team in the 2024 Olympic gold medal game in Paris.
Within three days of teammate forward Trinity Rodman’s 105+2nd-minute game-winner in a 1-0 triumph against Japan, the U.S. advanced to the semifinals, the late heroics occurred after ninety minutes of scoreless play.
Even though the USA had the upper hand in the game—winning shots (19–15), shots on goal (10–7), and possession (58%–42%)—this victory was largely due to the team’s incredible mental and physical toughness, which allowed them to persevere and eventually overcome a strong Germany squad just five minutes into the first overtime period.
With the victory, the United States moves on to the gold medal match for the first time since London 2012 and for the sixth time in their eight Olympic games. The USA will try to win a record-tying fifth gold medal at the Olympics.
At 11 a.m. on Saturday, the USWNT will play the winner of Brazil vs. Spain at Paris’ famed Parc des Princes. ET / 5:00 p.m. regional. Out of the 17 world championship events that have been held, this will be the USA’s eleventh final.
Author: Quique Lopez
Quique Lopez doesn’t just cover soccer—he deconstructs it with the precision of a veteran and the wit of a storyteller. A former player who sees the pitch as both a tactical chessboard and a cultural stage, Quique balances sharp critiques with a genuine love for the game’s soul. He’s as quick to call out the ego of a superstar as he is to find the hidden beauty in a local derby.