The most decorated women’s soccer team defeated Brazil 1-0 in the championship game in Paris’ Parc des Princes to win their fifth Olympic gold medal.
With a hard-fought victory on Saturday, Mallory Swanson’s goal in the second half gave head coach Emma Hayes her best start as manager of the United States.
The U.S. substantially improved in the second half following a challenging opening forty-five minutes. When Korbin Albert found Swanson in space behind the Brazilian defense with a fantastic through-ball, they seized the lead.
The 26-year-old attacker, making her 100th appearance for the United States, coolly placed her shot beyond Lorena, the goalie. Swanson had timed her run flawlessly, as evidenced by a later offside check.
The United States won their first gold medal since the 2012 London Olympics with a record-breaking fifth goal in the 57th minute.
Hayes was tasked with turning the team’s fortunes around after their unfortunate loss in the Round of 16 of last year’s Women’s World Cup, even though she had only taken over as head coach in May.
She seems to have had an immediate influence, even though winning this tournament wasn’t simple. The players had to contend with difficult circumstances the entire tournament; to defeat Japan in the quarterfinals and Germany in the semifinals, they needed goals in extra time.
“I’m feeling so many different emotions right now,” Hayes remarked. “I’m really sensitive. Being this team’s coach makes me incredibly proud. I have no idea what to say.
This was Brazil’s third Olympic final defeat to the United States, and it also took away the famous Marta’s final opportunity to earn a gold medal. After an hour, the 38-year-old was brought in to play in her last significant international tournament, but she was unable to alter the result.
Goalie Alyssa Naeher of the United States denied Gabi Portilho’s close-range attempt as Brazil looked sharp in the first half. Just before halftime, Naeher produced an incredible diving save.
Ludmila had earlier put the ball in the net, but it was promptly called offside.
Brazil, who advanced to the final after surprising wins over the hosts France and the defending World Cup champions Spain, dominated the first half of the match but was unable to sustain their aggressive style of play in the second half.
Actor Tom Cruise and former captain Megan Rapinoe cheered from the stands as Swanson’s outstanding play swung the match in the United States’ favor. Afterward, Trinity Rodman blew a great opportunity to double the lead.
Brazil had trouble getting opportunities as the game went on, but they had a chance to tie it in injury time when Adriana’s header was stopped by Naeher, the American goalkeeper’s final battle of the contest.
In just her tenth game leading the USWNT following her departure from Chelsea, Hayes has already won an Olympic gold medal, ushering in a new chapter in the team’s history.
Swanson was seen blotting tears after netting her highest goal to date. At full-time, American players hurried onto the field to celebrate. Swanson had suffered a knee injury that kept him out of the World Cup.
“I had some opportunities previously. She remarked, “I attempted to get past them.” It felt fantastic to score. Give thanks to God. His effort was sensed by me. I’ve encountered a lot. I experienced the might, majesty, and accomplishments of God.
