The stage is set for a potential blockbuster final in Olympic women’s football as World Cup holders Spain and four-time gold medallists the United States both look poised to advance. With their exceptional performances so far, these two football giants are the favorites to meet in the final.
Spain and the USA in the Semi-Finals
On Tuesday, Spain, led by reigning Ballon d’Or winner Aitana Bonmati, will face Brazil in Marseille. Spain, making their Olympic debut, have already showcased their prowess on the international stage with a World Cup victory last year. However, they narrowly avoided elimination in the quarter-finals, coming back from a 2-0 deficit against Colombia to equalize and eventually win on penalties. Barcelona’s Bonmati played a crucial role, scoring the decisive penalty.
In the other semi-final, the USA, under new coach Emma Hayes, will take on Germany in Lyon. The Americans, a traditional powerhouse in women’s football, are showing a resurgence after a disappointing World Cup last year. Hayes, who joined the team in May after a successful stint at Chelsea, has led the USA to top their group with three wins and a hard-fought extra-time victory over Japan in the quarter-finals, with Trinity Rodman scoring the crucial goal.
Rejuvenated USA
Hayes, who has been instrumental in revitalizing the team, expressed confidence in her squad. “We are so confident going into games. That comes from Emma. She believes in us so much,” forward Sophia Smith remarked. Hayes, aiming for a record-extending fifth Olympic gold for the USA, praised her team’s tactical progress. “I am not going to be disappointed at anything this team does because I respect football at the top level, and for us to arrive tactically at the place we have so quickly is real credit to the players,” she said.
Germany’s Path to the Semi-Finals
Germany, who won gold in 2016, finished second in their group behind the USA and advanced by edging out reigning Olympic champions Canada on penalties. Goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger, who played under Hayes at Chelsea, was pivotal in that quarter-final, saving two penalties and scoring the decisive kick herself. “It was a very tough game, but when it went to the shootout, I knew we had a great goalkeeper. It gave us confidence, and she got us the victory,” defender Kathrin Hendrich said.
Brazil’s Challenge
Brazil, despite not being expected to reach this stage, have made it to the semi-finals. They were initially knocked out of their group due to a 2-0 defeat by Spain, compounded by the sending-off of legendary captain Marta. However, they surprised many by defeating hosts France 1-0 in the quarter-finals, albeit without Marta, who was handed a two-match ban for her red card. The Brazilian Football Confederation has criticized the suspension as “excessive” and is appealing to allow the 38-year-old to play against Spain.
Looking Ahead
The semi-final matchups promise to be thrilling as Spain and the USA, the top favorites, look to secure their spots in the final. With the potential clash between these two football heavyweights, the Olympic women’s football final is set to be an eagerly anticipated event.
