USA have moved one step closer to winning their third women’s World Cup title. The 2012 Olympic gold medalists beat underdogs Colombia 2-0 in their last-16 fixture and are favourites going into their quarterfinal showdown against China. Alex Morgan and Carli Lloyd both scored for the two-time World Champions.
The North American side had the advantage of an extra player from the 50th minute, after Colombian keeper Catalina Perez was sent off for bringing down Alex Morgan in the box. Former World Footballer of the Year Abby Wambach missed the resulting penalty, however. Angela Clavijo was then at fault for the second penalty, as she brought down Megan Rapinoe. This time Lloyd made sure to convert the spot kick.
“We knew this game was going to be a challenge because Columbia are a tough opponent. We controlled the game for the most part and I knew that we would score goals. I am happy that we made it through to the next round,” said manager Jill Ellis, who will be without Megan Rapinoe and Lauren Holiday in their next match.
USA could end up facing Germany, who face a tough test against France in their quarterfinal on Friday, in the semifinals.
USA have moved one step closer to winning their third women’s World Cup title. The 2012 Olympic gold medalists beat underdogs Colombia 2-0 in their last-16 fixture and are favourites going into their quarterfinal showdown against China. Alex Morgan and Carli Lloyd both scored for the two-time World Champions.
The North American side had the advantage of an extra player from the 50th minute, after Colombian keeper Catalina Perez was sent off for bringing down Alex Morgan in the box. Former World Footballer of the Year Abby Wambach missed the resulting penalty, however. Angela Clavijo was then at fault for the second penalty, as she brought down Megan Rapinoe. This time Lloyd made sure to convert the spot kick.
“We knew this game was going to be a challenge because Columbia are a tough opponent. We controlled the game for the most part and I knew that we would score goals. I am happy that we made it through to the next round,” said manager Jill Ellis, who will be without Megan Rapinoe and Lauren Holiday in their next match.
USA could end up facing Germany, who face a tough test against France in their quarterfinal on Friday, in the semifinals.
