Yahoo Sports 2024 Olympics: USWNT seal three points against Germany in Marseille
Both teams entered Sunday’s clash with 3-0 wins under their belts, having beaten Zambia and Australia respectively. The USWNT banked another important three points after beating Germany 4-1 in Marseille.
Thanks to a Sophia Smith brace and goals from Mallory Swanson and Lynn Williams, the US top their group with six points. It’s been a dream start to Emma Hayes’ new chapter as manager across the pond.
Starting XIs
United States
Naeher; Dunn, Davidson (Sonnett, 44′), Girma, Fox (Krueger, 90′), Coffey, Horan, Lavelle, Smith (Williams, 85′), Swanson, Rodman (Nighswonger, 90′).
Germany
Berger; Rauch, Hegering, Hendrich, Gwinn, Minge, Nüsken (Lohmann, 68′), Popp (Senss,77′), Bühl, Schüller, Brand.
How it went
A busy first half saw several chances for both teams. The first fell to Lea Schüller in the fourth minute, as she was played through via Jule Brand.
Coming alive in the 10th minute, the US took the lead as Trinity Rodman found herself in acres of space. Smith tapped home Rodman’s curling cross, markingher first goal of the tournament.
Germany levelled the scoring in the 22nd minute when Giulia Gwinn scored from outside the box. However, USA fans weren’t silenced for long, as they took the lead agains only three minutes later. Ann-Katrin Berger parried the ball straight into the path of Swanson, who was never going to waste such a golden opportunity.
Moments later, Smith’s deflected effort bounced off the post and in, giving the US a two-goal advantage heading into half-time.
The second half was full of chances for Germany. The first coming when Brand’s effort hit the outside of the post. Despite this, Germany failed to get on the scoresheet during the half as they lacked the clinical edge needed to score against such a regimented USWNT defence. Hayes’ side then sealed the three points, as substitute Williams scored in the 89th minute.
Who is up next?
For the final matchup of the group stages, Germany will face Zambia, who are still without a win at the Olympics. The USA however, will face an Australia side who have conceded eight goals this tournament. Both matches can be viewed via Discovery+ in the UK and Peacock in the US.
