USA, Sweden battle to scoreless stalemate - FIFA WOMEN'S WORLD CUP
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In a tightly contested match, USA and Sweden battled to a goalless draw, which means tensions and drama should be running high during the final matchday in Group D at the FIFA Women’s World Cup Canada 2015™.
The Americans dominated play for large stretches of the game, but much like their Swedish counterparts, the final ball was consistently off the mark. The first good chance after a tight opening 25 minutes came from Morgan Brien serving a great ball into the box from the right side. Sydney Leroux, amidst a crowd of yellow shirts, managed to get her head to the ball first but was not able to muster enough strength to direct it towards goal.
After a relativly even first 45 minutes, the Stars and Stripes picked up the pace in the second half but there were no goals to show for their efforts. Carli Lloyd came close in the 48th minute but her shot was well-saved by Hedvig Lindahl.
Lloyd was nearly in again trying to connect on one of several quality crosses from Megan Rapinoe, but Jessica Samuelsson cleared bravely over the line. Sydney Leroux nearly scored on the ensuing corner kick but missed just wide.
The closest chance of breaking the deadlock somewhat surprisingly fell Sweden’s way, but Meghan Klingenberg – one of the shortest players on the pitch – managed to clear Caroline Seger’s shot off the underside of the crossbar and out of danger, with goal-line technology confirming the American No22 was able to keep the ball from entering Hope Solo’s goal.
The Americans continued to press forward but were unable to find a winner, leaving a point apiece to the two teams and all to play for on Monday.
Live Your Goals Player of the Match: Hedvig Lindahl (Sweden)