USWNT advances to Paris 2024 Olympics Gold Medal match
- USA played Germany for the second time this Olympics
- Emma Hayes has USWNT into the Gold Medal match
- Sophia Smith scored the game-winner in extra time
By Max Mallow
The United States women's national team advanced to the Paris 2024 Olympics Gold Medal match after defeating Germany for the second time this tournament.
After a quick turnaround from USA's quarter-final victory over Japan in extra time, Emma Hayes' side took on Germany in a group stage rematch. USA defeated Germany 4-1 in Group B, just one of two goals the side conceded so far this tournament. Trinity Rodman's spectacular goal against Japan in the 105th minute set up this semi-final.
Germany played even longer needing penalties to secure a semi-final spot over Canada with tired legs playing a part in the fixture. Germany missed Alexandra Popp and Lea Schuller on the day with both players out.
Most of the game was cagey as any knockout stage tournament game would be. Naomi Girma was solid once again in defense. Mallory Swanson had the ball in the back of the net late in regulation, but the offside flag was up well in advance. Germany's defense was much more solid this time around despite losing Marina Hegering in the 79th minute.
Right away in extra time, Swanson played a ball through to Sophia Smith for her third goal of the tournament. Dubbed the Trident by Jon Champion and Julie Foudy, the attacking trio of Swanson, Smith and Rodman found a way through to put USA in the final. Smith almost had two more goals if not for Ann-Katrin Berger.
USA saw out the rest of extra time thanks to a massive save from Alyssa Naeher to secure the first spot in the final on Aug. 10. The team has an extra day of rest this time around which will be needed considering both games needed an extra 30 minutes to decide a winner.
Emma Hayes has chance at Gold in first tournament for USWNT
It can't be understated the job Hayes has done in such a short amount of time. Despite the talent on the team, expectations were mixed considering Hayes was announced in Nov. 2023 and first took charge in a game this past June. The former Chelsea manager has yet to lose a game as USWNT boss.
USA now awaits the winner of Brazil and Spain in the second semi-final. The reigning FIFA Women's World Cup champion was the favorite coming into the tournament, but either opponent will be a challenge with Olympic gold on the line.
Germany will play the loser of that semi-final in the Bronze Medal match.