This archive report was first published on 29 June 2019.
The US women's national team secured a spot in the World Cup semifinals with a 2-1 victory over France on June 28, 2019, at the Parc des Princes in Paris. This win sets up a highly anticipated semifinal match against England on July 2, 2019, in Lyon.
Historic Win for the US Team ¶
Megan Rapinoe's two goals, including a free-kick in the fifth minute, propelled the team to the win. Despite France's pressure, the US team held on, with Rapinoe scoring her second goal in the 65th minute. France's Wendie Renard pulled one back with a header in the 81st minute, but the US team saw out the victory.
Rapinoe has been crucial on the field in this tournament, while dominating headlines off it thanks to her spat with US President Donald Trump over her refusal to attend any post-tournament reception at the White House. She had already scored twice in the win over Spain in the last round and is now the joint top scorer at the tournament with five goals.
France's Disappointing End to the Tournament ¶
For France, the loss marked a disappointing end to their World Cup campaign. Coach Corinne Diacre had set a target of reaching the final, but the team fell short. Diacre acknowledged the defeat, saying,
"It's a failure in a footballing sense, we can't hide from that. We are far from fulfilling our objective."
France's defeat also means they will not go to the 2020 Olympics, and it marks the second consecutive World Cup where their adventure ends in the last eight, the same stage at which they went out of the 2016 Olympics and the last three European Championships.
The US team's victory is a significant milestone in the history of women's football, which has its roots dating back to 1930 when the first women's international match was played. The team's success is a testament to the growth and development of the sport over the years.
Jill Ellis, the US team's coach, praised the hosts, saying,
"That's a fantastic team we played tonight, and that is the most intense match I have ever been a part of."
The US team's win is a culmination of their hard work and dedication, and they will look to carry this momentum forward as they face England in the semifinals.
