Women’s World Cup Catch-Up – Day 25

 

Day 25 of the FIFA Women’s World Cup saw the competition enter the Semi-Final stage with the world’s top two sides, Germany and USA, battling for a place in the Final of Canada 2015.

 

USA 2 GERMANY 0

The Stars and Stripes had the better of the first half, as Germany pressed hard when not in possession, but Jill Ellis’ side remained typical steadfast in defence.

Meanwhile at the other end of the pitch, forward Alex Morgan had the best opportunities in front of goal for the USA.

However, drama ensued after the break as Julie Johnston misjudged the bounce of the ball following a lofted through ball, fouling Germany’s Alexandra Popp as the midfielder came in on the American defenders blindside.

But Canada 2015’s top goal-scorer, Celia Sasic put her spot kick wide which led to massive US celebrations and tears of relief from Johnston.

Nine minutes later, the United States were given a penalty of their own as the usually composed Annike Krahn uncharacteristical fouled Morgan. Player of the Match, Carli Lloyd was ever-reliable as she calmly tucked home the spot kick to give the American’s the lead.

As the German’s pushed in search for an equaliser, the USA sealed victory with six minutes left of the game as Lloyd again troubled Silvia Nied’s side by dribbling past three beleaguered German defenders before finding substitute Kelley O’Hara to gleefully fire home from close range.

The USA will now face the winners of the Semi-Final between Holders Japan and Mark Sampson’s England on Sunday 6th July, whilst Germany await the losers for the 3rd place play-off on Saturday 5th July.

 

USA:

Solo, Sauerbrunn, Lloyd ©, Krieger, Holiday, Morgan (Leroux 90+3), Brian, Rapinoe (Wambach 80), Heath (O’Hara 75), Johnston, Klingenberg.

Germany:

Angerer ©, Bartusiak, Maier, Krahn, Laudehr, Mittag (Marozsan 77), Sasic, Leupolz, Popp, Goeßling, Kemme.