A millimeter costs four times champion U.S a place in the quarter finals of Women's World Cup 2023; here's what happened to the USWNT
Despite controlling much of the shootout, misses from Megan Rapinoe, Sophia Smith, and Kelly O'Hara proved costly. Sweden's Lina Hurtig converted the decisive spot-kick, securing a 5-4 shootout victory and a ticket to the quarterfinals. The match marked the end of an era as Rapinoe bid farewell to her illustrious international career. The Golden Boot winner of the 2019 World Cup had taken on a smaller role in her final tournament.
Sweden's team celebrate after defeating the United States in a penalty shootout in their Women's World Cup round of 16 soccer match in Melbourne, Australia, Sunday, Aug. 6, 2023. (AP Photo/Hamish Blair)For the United States, this was a heartbreaking conclusion to their journey, ending their quest for an unprecedented third consecutive title. On the other hand, Sweden advances to the quarterfinals, eager to claim their first major global tournament victory in the history of the Women's World Cup and the Olympics. The stadium echoed with both celebration and sorrow, as the U.S. players sobbed while Abba's «Dancing Queen» played in honor of the victorious Swedes. The path to glory may have been thwarted for the reigning champions, but the Women's World Cup continues with more thrilling matches, as Japan, fresh from a 3-1 victory against Norway, awaits Sweden in the next round. For the United States, the journey may have ended, but their legacy as a powerhouse in women's soccer will forever endure.
United States' Lindsey Horan heads the ball during the Women's World Cup round of 16 soccer match between Sweden and the United States in Melbourne, Australia, Sunday, Aug. 6, 2023. (AP Photo/Hamish Blair) Heart-wrenching VAR decisionThe agonizing defeat for the United States in the Women's World Cup
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