USA secures semifinal spot

USA is through to the semifinal of the FIFA U20 Women's World Cup underway in Port Moresby.

They defeated Mexico 2-1 today in the third quarterfinal at the Sir John Guise Stadium.

USA, in black and blue, scored through forward Ally Watt and midfielder Kelcie Hedge. Both players were not included in the starting lineup but came off the bench in the second half.

Mexico, in white and green colours, scored through midfielder Maria Sanchez.

The Mexicans showed technique and great footwork, clearly standing their ground against USA in the first half.

Both teams dominated the first half having equal ball possession.

Mexico's midfielder Sanchez made the first attempt in the eighth minute with a clear direct shot outside the penalty box. Unfortunately, it was saved by USA's goalkeeper Casey Murphy.

It was a tough encounter with both teams putting up a fight in the first half, going into half-time scoreless.

The second half continued to be a tough fight for both teams until a simple error handball by USA's Savannah Demelo gave Mexico a free kick.

Sanchez took the opportunity to score the first goal of the competition, resulting in Mexico’s 1-0 lead in the 66th minute.

USA leveled the score 1-1 when forward Ally Watt found the net in the 80th minute from a clear sweep across from the right of the goalmouth.

Four minutes’ additional time gave USA the opportunity to score through Hedge.

Hedge made a clear shot in front of the goalmouth to put USA in the lead 2-1 and win the game.

Live Your Goals Player of the Match was awarded to Watt for her outstanding performance.

Mexico is now out of the tournament.

 

(Pictures by Troy Taule and Kennedy Bani)

Author: 
Quintina Naime