USA women had more corners, off-sides, and possessions, but Sweden ended up winning the match. The penalty shootout were so casual from the USA team. Even though they had chances to win the game, but unnecessarily played penalties with little spirit. They didn't make a strong effort even after Sweden missed two earlier shots. As we all know, penalties can be anyone's game. So, the reigning champions are now out, and I have to say, it's a brutal way to make an exit from Women’s World Cup 2023.
The American goalkeeper, Alyssa Naeher, was clearly not convinced about the decision.
At first it wasn't too obvious, but it was clearly a goal after watching the review:
The Americans had more chances but the Swedish goalkeeper, Zecira Musovic, had a phenomenal match.
If you wonder why she has a non Swedish name and also doesn't look like the rest of the team, it's because her genes are from Serbia. She was born in Sweden from a Serbian family.
I was rooting for the American side to win, but when it got to the penalties, I simply concluded on them loosing. I didn't think they where really prepared for this kind of shoot-out, or they did and where exhausted already to find the back of net.
To the S.A side, it was a hard battle and though I would have loved for them to see this stage through to the finals, they sure did represent the African continent on a major scale. First by hosting and second, by making it to this stage. Also Spain did well too, but it is one big reminder to the other teams that any team irrespective of previous glory, can fail, if the team is weaker in more than one position on the field.
