In the most-anticipated quarterfinal match in Women’s World Cup history, the United States struck first.
Megan Rapinoe whipped a wide free kick low toward goal, a cross/shot that somehow eluded everyone and fooled France goalkeeper Sarah Bouhaddi, giving the U.S. a 1-0 lead in the fifth minute.
DREAM START FOR THE USA! @mpinoe's free kick gets past everyone as the @USWNT takes an early lead once again! #FIFAWWC pic.twitter.com/K5oHYnCyvD
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) June 28, 2019
The goal, though early, wasn’t the first chance for the U.S. Julie Ertz smashed a long-range effort that was well struck but straight into the arms of Bouhaddi, one of the game’s best keepers.
Rapinoe has been under the microscope at this tournament for her outspoken nature, including anthem protests and profanity-laced comments on the U.S. president, so you know she enjoyed that goal.
The winner of Friday’s match plays England in the semifinals on Tuesday. England beat Norway 3-0 on Thursday. The other quarterfinals pit Italy vs. the Netherlands and Germany vs. Sweden, both on Saturday.
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