MELBOURNE: In a stunning upset, Sweden defeated the United States 5-4 in a sudden-death penalty shootout to advance to the quarter-finals of the Women’s World Cup. The defending champions’ dreams of a third consecutive title came to an end, making it their earliest-ever exit from the tournament.
During the opening 90 minutes, the USA dominated the game, but Swedish goalkeeper Zecira Musovic made impressive saves to keep her side in the match. The deadlock persisted even after extra-time, leading to a tense penalty shootout in Melbourne.
Sweden’s Nathalie Bjorn missed the first penalty, but Megan Rapinoe failed to capitalize on the opportunity for the USA. The penalties continued with both teams exchanging misses, until Lina Hurtig’s successful kick secured Sweden’s victory, confirmed by VAR ruling her shot had crossed the line.
For the Americans, this unexpected early exit marked a major underachievement, given their status as the dominant force in international women’s football for years. It was also a disappointing farewell for Rapinoe, the Golden Boot winner at the 2019 tournament, who announced her retirement at the end of the season.
USA Performance in Women’s World Cup 2023
The United States entered the tournament as four-time champions with high expectations, but their lackluster performance in the group stage foreshadowed their struggles. Only managing one win, against Vietnam, they failed to advance further in the competition.
With Germany’s group-stage exit and the USA’s early departure, the tournament has already seen two top-ranked teams fall, adding to the unpredictability and excitement of the Women’s World Cup.
Sweden’s resilient defense, led by goalkeeper Musovic, stood firm against the US onslaught, denying numerous goal-scoring opportunities. The victory catapults Sweden into the quarter-finals, where they will face Japan, and leaves the USA to contemplate a disappointing end to their title defense.
