Alyssa Naeher save helps USWNT beat Germany in semifinals: Social media reactions

The United States women's national soccer team is heading back to the gold medal match at the Summer Olympics for the first time since 2012.

And veteran goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher is a big reason why.

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In the winding seconds of the second extra time period of Tuesday's semifinal match vs. Germany, the USWNT netminder came up with the game-winning save — with her foot. It was the second shot on goal in a matter of seconds from Germany, as they had a free-kick opportunity just outside of the 18-yard box.

Sophia Smith scored the lone goal for the Americans in the win, coming in the 95th minute in the first overtime period off an assist from Mallory Swanson. Naeher finished with seven saves on the afternoon.

It is the third consecutive Olympic Games that Naeher is playing for the USWNT. Through five games at the Paris Games, Naeher has combined for 23 saves while giving up just two goals: one each to Germany and Australia in Group Stage play.

With the win, the USWNT moves to a perfect 5-0 at the Paris Games and advances to Saturday's gold medal match, where it will play the winner of Spain vs. Brazil at 3 p.m. ET inside Parc des Princes in Paris.

Considering the significance, and difficulty, of the save by Naeher, the American goalkeeper received quite a positive reaction on social media from fans.

Social media reacts to Alyssa Naeher's game saving goal

Here's a snippet of reactions on social media to Naeher's big save to help send the United States back to the gold medal match:

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Alyssa Naeher save helps USWNT beat Germany: Social media reactions