In a disappointing turn of events, the US Women’s Soccer team were eliminated from the Women’s World Cup by Sweden after a tense penalty shootout. The defeat marks the earliest World Cup exit for the four-time champions.
The US team was striving for an unprecedented third consecutive title. But their hopes were dashed as Megan Rapinoe, Sophia Smith, and Kelley O’Hara missed their penalties. Sweden’s Lina Hurtig sealed the victory, knocking the US out of the tournament after a scoreless draw in regulation and extra time.
Describing the loss as “a sick joke,” Megan Rapinoe fought back tears as she reflected on the defeat. Goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher echoed the sentiment, calling the loss tough but expressing pride in the team’s performance.
The loss was particularly poignant for Julie Ertz, who, battling emotion, admitted that it was likely her last game.
Despite their underwhelming performance in the group stage matches, the American team played their best game against Sweden. Their coach, Vlatko Andonovski, praised the team’s grit, resilience, and fight, expressing his pride in the team despite the loss.
With this result, Sweden advances to the quarterfinals to face Japan. Meanwhile, the US team’s focus will undoubtedly shift to the future and preparing for the next World Cup.