USWNT hangs on against Portugal, advances to the knockout round
The Americans finish second in Group E after going 1-2-0
The two-time defending World Cup champion United States could only muster a 0-0 draw on Tuesday against Portugal — but nonetheless advanced to the round of 16 as the second-placed team in Group E.
The USWNT won only one game in group play for the first time in World Cup history, scoring just four goals in three matches. The Netherlands, meanwhile, topped the group after routing Vietnam 7-0, in a game played at the same time.
With its win over Vietnam, the Dutch head to Sydney to face the second-place team from Group G, which includes Sweden, South Africa, Italy and Argentina. The United States plays the group’s top team in Melbourne.
The Americans, however, were nearly eliminated when Portugal striker Ana Capeta’s shot hit the left post in stoppage time.
The final whistle saw the Americans breath a sigh of relief at Eden Park in Auckland, New Zealand. The Portuguese players, meanwhile, cried knowing they had lost the chance to advance while playing at their first-ever World Cup.
The U.S., who have won a total of four Women’s World Cups, have never been eliminated during the tournament’s group stage.
The USWNT had few chances. Lynn Williams’ header in the 14th minute was saved by goalkeeper Ines Pereira. An Alex Morgan header off a free kick sailed over the goal in the 57th minute, another play that highlighted the USWNT’s poor attack on the day.
At the same time, midfielder Rose Lavelle picked up a yellow card in the 38th minute — her second of the group stage — and will be forced to miss the next game.