- In the Women's World Cup, the Netherlands and the USA secured a ticket to the round of 16 in the final round of Group E.
- The United States, the record world champions, fight their way to a 0-0 draw against Portugal, which is enough to qualify.
- In the parallel match, the Netherlands secured its lead in the group by defeating Vietnam 7-0.
This feeling almost became a reality in stoppage time at Eden Park in Auckland. With a long ball from her own half and a header, Ana Capita, who had just been substituted, took off. The Portuguese striker shot a ball from the edge of the penalty area, but it only hit the post. Thus, the score remained 0-0, which ensured the impressive progress of the American team, which was nominated for qualification. Despite the brave performance, Portugal has to give up.
Looking at the knockout stage, the United States will have to improve significantly if it wants to win its third straight title. In the last chance match, the rebellious Portuguese entered the duels assertively and barely allowed the favorites to develop. The best chance of the first half went to the Portuguese. However, Jessica Silva, who sent it perfectly deep, shot it wide of the goal.
USA is offensively harmless
Even after the break, Portugal goalkeeper Enes Pereira was barely asked. The 24-year-old, who usually guards the goal for Servette-Chenoa, never had to prove her abilities and was always there to assist the American's harmless shots.
Substituting Megan Rapinoe after about an hour did not have the desired effect. Vlatko Andonovski's team has increased their pressure but there are still no real convincing chances.
Netherlands with shooting festival
The Netherlands secured its victory in the group thanks to an easy victory over Vietnam 7-0. Lieke Martens headed the game in the right direction early with a great shot (eighth). After a long-range shot from Esme Brujts in the 18th minute, the score became 3-0 in favor of the favourites. The 20-year-old doubled the lead in the 57th minute with an almost identical goal.
Vietnam, who had already been eliminated before the match, can look back on a bitter World Cup debut. Three defeats and a goal difference of 0:12 is a brutal record for the world number 32.
USA perhaps against Sweden
Their opponents in the round of 16 know neither the United States nor the Netherlands. The Americans will most likely have to deal with the Swedes, who will be difficult to deny victory in the seventh group. The Netherlands' potential rivals are Italy, South Africa or Argentina, all of which still have a chance of qualifying for the round of 16.
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