US advances to Women's World Cup quarterfinals after defeating Spain 2-1
REIMS, France - The U.S. Women’s National Team defeated Spain 2-1 Monday in the knockout round of the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup, sending the team a step closer to defending its title.
Tobin Heath was awarded a penalty early in the match and team captain Megan Rapinoe scored in the seventh minute, giving USA the lead.
Spain then answered right back with Jenni Hermoso tying up the game 1 to 1, which was the first goal the Americans had allowed in France.
The score remained tied in the second half until Rapinoe put the U.S. up 2 to 1 following a penalty, burying the ball in the low corner. Video review was used to confirm a foul on Rose Lavelle that gave Rapinoe the game-winner in the 75th minute.
The U.S. will face France in the quarterfinals June 28 in Paris. The French defeated Brazil 2-1 in extra time Sunday night, with Amandine Henry scoring the game-winner in the 107th minute.
Spain, ranked No. 13 in the world, reached the knockout stage for the first time in only their second-ever appearance at the Women’s World Cup. The team, known as La Roja or “The Red” in Spanish, finished second place in Group B with four points.
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USWNT was dominant during the group stage of this year’s World Cup, winning their matches against Thailand, Chile and Sweden, respectively.
The team also marked a Women’s World Cup record for the total goals in a group stage at 18.
Watch the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup on FOX from June 7 through July 7.
This story was reported from Los Angeles. The Associated Press contributed.