Olympics 2024: USA Edge Japan In Women’s Football To Reach Semis

By Chimezie Nebolisa

A Trinity Rodman’s goal in extra time saw the United States advanced to the women’s soccer semifinals at the Olympics with a 1-0 win over Japan on Saturday.

Rodman’s goal to the top of the far post came in stoppage time in the first extra period.

It was Rodman’s third goal of the tournament and she nearly scored again in the second extra period.

Japan had two good chances in quick succession in the first half. Mina Tanaka’s attempt was smothered by U.S. goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher before Miyabi Moriya blasted a shot from about 12 yards that went over the goal.

Mallory Swanson, who leads the team with three goals in the tournament, had the best opportunities for the United States in the second half. But the U.S. was uncharacteristically plagued with errant passes and missed opportunities.

Rodman’s blast after a free kick in the 90th minute bounced off of a Japanese defender and was cleared away.

The United States will face the winner of the later match between Germany and Canada in Marseille.