Trinity Rodman scored a decisive goal in extra time to secure a 1-0 victory for the United States over Japan in the women’s football quarter-finals at Paris 2024.
After a goalless 90 minutes marked by limited quality at Parc des Princes, Rodman unleashed a stunning curling shot into the top-left corner just before half-time of extra time, sealing the win for the USA.
The USA, who last won Olympic gold at London 2012, are in pursuit of their fifth Olympic title under new manager Emma Hayes. Hayes, coaching her first major tournament since her appointment in May, has already faced the challenge of revitalizing a team that experienced their worst performance at a Women’s World Cup in 2023.
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Hayes, known for her success with Chelsea where she won 13 major trophies in 11 years, was visibly frustrated during the match, reacting to missed chances with visible exasperation. Despite several near misses from Sophia Smith and Mallory Swanson, Rodman’s late goal sparked jubilation among USA fans and Hayes.
The USA will face either Canada or Germany in the semi-finals on Tuesday in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
