Paris, France (August 6, 2024) — The US Women’s National Team (USWNT) is locked in a tense battle against Germany in the semifinal match of the 2024 Paris Olympics. The match has reached overtime after an intense 90 minutes of regular play, with both teams showcasing their skill and determination in front of a packed stadium. Follow our live updates to stay informed on every crucial moment of this high-stakes game.
Live Updates
Full-Time: USA 1-1 Germany The match ends in a draw after 90 minutes, pushing the game into overtime. Both teams have displayed remarkable resilience and tactical prowess, making for an exciting semifinal showdown.
90′ — Final Whistle Blown Regulation time ends with the score tied at 1-1. The USWNT and Germany are preparing for 30 minutes of overtime to decide the winner. Fans are on the edge of their seats as the teams regroup for the added period.
85′ — USA Equalizes! Megan Rapinoe delivers a perfect corner kick, and Alex Morgan heads it into the net, bringing the score to 1-1. The stadium erupts as the USWNT fights back to stay in the game.
75′ — Germany Scores Germany takes the lead with a stunning goal by captain Alexandra Popp, who finds the back of the net with a powerful strike from outside the box. USA 0-1 Germany.
60′ — Close Call for USA Lindsey Horan nearly scores for the USWNT with a long-range shot, but Germany’s goalkeeper makes a spectacular save to keep the game scoreless.
45′ — Halftime The first half ends without any goals, but both teams have created several scoring opportunities. The USWNT’s defense has been solid, with Becky Sauerbrunn and Abby Dahlkemper making crucial interventions.
30′ — USA Presses Forward The USWNT is dominating possession and creating chances, with Crystal Dunn and Tobin Heath putting pressure on Germany’s defense. However, the German goalkeeper remains alert and denies multiple attempts.
10′ — Early Aggression from Germany Germany starts strong, testing the USWNT’s defense with quick attacks. Alyssa Naeher makes an early save to keep the score level.
Pre-Match Build-Up
Kick-Off Approaches Both teams are on the field, and the atmosphere in the stadium is electric. Fans from around the world are eagerly awaiting the start of this crucial semifinal match.
Team Line-Ups Announced
- USWNT Starting XI: Alyssa Naeher (GK), Crystal Dunn, Abby Dahlkemper, Becky Sauerbrunn, Kelley O’Hara, Lindsey Horan, Rose Lavelle, Samantha Mewis, Megan Rapinoe, Alex Morgan, Tobin Heath
- Germany Starting XI: Merle Frohms (GK), Kathrin Hendrich, Marina Hegering, Sara Doorsoun, Felicitas Rauch, Lena Oberdorf, Sara Däbritz, Dzsenifer Marozsán, Svenja Huth, Lea Schüller, Alexandra Popp
Head-to-Head History The USWNT and Germany have a storied rivalry, with both teams frequently meeting in major tournaments. Their last encounter saw the USWNT emerge victorious in a close match, adding extra anticipation to this semifinal clash.
Pre-Match Comments
- USWNT Coach Vlatko Andonovski: “We are prepared for a tough match. Germany is a strong team, but we believe in our players and our strategy.”
- Germany Coach Martina Voss-Tecklenburg: “Facing the USA is always a challenge, but our team is ready. We aim to play our game and capitalize on our strengths.”
Overtime Begins
95′ — First Half of Overtime Starts The first half of overtime kicks off with both teams pushing hard to break the deadlock. The USWNT is looking to capitalize on their momentum from the equalizer.
100′ — Germany Attacks Germany presses forward with a quick counter-attack, but Alyssa Naeher makes a crucial save to keep the score level.
105′ — Halftime in Overtime The first half of overtime ends with no additional goals. Players take a brief rest before the final 15 minutes of play.
110′ — USA Pushes for a Winner The USWNT increases their offensive efforts, with Megan Rapinoe and Alex Morgan creating dangerous opportunities in the German penalty area.
115′ — Germany Counterattacks Germany launches a swift counter-attack, but Becky Sauerbrunn makes a critical block to thwart the scoring chance.
120′ — Final Whistle in Overtime Overtime concludes with the score still tied at 1-1. The match will now proceed to a penalty shootout to determine who advances to the gold medal match.
Penalty Shootout
Germany Shoots First
- Germany’s First Penalty: Goal (Germany 1-0)
- USA’s First Penalty: Goal by Megan Rapinoe (1-1)
Second Round
- Germany’s Second Penalty: Miss (Saved by Alyssa Naeher)
- USA’s Second Penalty: Goal by Alex Morgan (2-1)
Third Round
- Germany’s Third Penalty: Goal (2-2)
- USA’s Third Penalty: Goal by Tobin Heath (3-2)
Fourth Round
- Germany’s Fourth Penalty: Goal (3-3)
- USA’s Fourth Penalty: Goal by Lindsey Horan (4-3)
Final Round
- Germany’s Fifth Penalty: Miss (Wide of the post)
- USA’s Fifth Penalty: Goal by Rose Lavelle (5-3)
USA Wins! The USWNT triumphs in the penalty shootout, securing their place in the gold medal match. The players celebrate on the field, and the fans are ecstatic. The USWNT’s journey to Olympic glory continues with this dramatic victory over Germany.
Stay tuned for post-match analysis and reactions from players and coaches. Congratulations to the USWNT on a hard-fought win!
