Team USA secured a 1-0 victory over Japan in a women’s soccer quarterfinal match on Saturday, advancing to the semifinals.
Trinity Rodman, a forward for the Washington Spirit, netted the decisive goal for the U.S. in the first period of extra time, hitting a left-footed shot into the top left corner.
The United States will compete against the winner of the Germany vs. Canada match in Marseille. In the group stage, the U.S. had previously defeated Germany 4-1.
Entering the knockout match, Team USA remained undefeated, outscoring opponents 9-2 under the guidance of new coach Emma Hayes at the Paris Games. Despite Japan’s steadfast defense, the Americans managed to secure the win.
Rodman’s goal came during stoppage time in the first extra period, leading to celebratory scenes on the field. It marked her third goal of the tournament, and she almost scored again in the second extra period.
The match at Parc des Princes saw former U.S. women’s national team stars Megan Rapinoe and Mia Hamm, along with rapper Snoop Dogg, among the fans.
Hayes, the former Chelsea manager, was hired last fall to lead the team after a disappointing performance at last summer’s Women’s World Cup, where the U.S. was eliminated earlier than ever before.
Japan had two significant chances in the first half, with U.S. goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher stopping an attempt by Mina Tanaka and Miyabi Moriya’s shot from about 12 yards sailing over the goal.
Mallory Swanson, leading the U.S. team with three goals in the tournament, had the best opportunities in the second half. However, the U.S. struggled with errant passes and missed chances.
A crucial free kick by Rodman in the 90th minute was deflected by a Japanese defender and cleared.
The match was a tight contest between familiar rivals. Japan triumphed over the U.S. in the 2011 Women’s World Cup final, but the U.S. claimed victory against Japan in the 2012 Olympic final for the gold. The London win marked the last of a record four gold medals for the U.S. in the Olympics.
In the Tokyo Games, the U.S. earned the bronze medal after losing to Canada in the semifinals, while Japan was eliminated by Sweden in the quarterfinals.
The U.S. also defeated Japan in the 2015 World Cup in Canada, with Carli Lloyd scoring three goals in the first 16 minutes, leading to a 5-2 victory.
For the quarterfinal match in Paris, the U.S. made one change to its starting lineup: Korbin Albert replaced Sam Coffey in the midfield due to Coffey’s yellow card accumulation. Forward Jaedyn Shaw was also available after missing the first three games due to a leg injury.