USA Beats Germany 2-0 In Women’s World Cup Semi-Final
In a brutal offense vs defense match, Team USA defeats Germany and now is on its way to the 2015 Women’s World Cup final against England or Japan.
After much criticism, coach Jill Ellis changed the formation of her lineup for the first time. Ellis seemed to play it safe with a traditional 4-4-2, with four defenders, four midfielders and two forwards thus far. Tonight, Ellis mixed things up against Germany with a 4-5-1.
After a scoreless first half, Alex Morgan was tumbled by a German defender Annike Krahn — a foul that has become controversial based on whether it occurred inside or outside of the penalty box. Carli Lloyd took the penalty shot, scoring on Germany’s Nadine Angerer.
Defender Julie Johnston received a yellow card when she pulled down star German striker Celia Sasic inside the box, an offense that could have earned her a red card. But Sasic pulled her penalty kick wide left while Hope Solo dove the other direction. A missed opportunity for Germany to end the American’s shutout streak.
In the 84th minute, Lloyd crossed a ball to substitute forward Kelley O’Hara who finished the cross with a superb volley giving the U.S. a comfortable cushion.
According to soccer expert Steve Hoffman, Director of Coaching for Cal South, one of the largest organization of youth soccer in America, “The US team has improved with each performance in the Women’s World Cup. They are not the same team that started in the tournament. I am thrilled with their victory over Germany. It’s fabulous to see Alex Morgan, a former Cal South player, playing in the Women’s World Cup. Even though she did not score, her contribution was terrific. Youth players all across America should be watching the Women’s World Cup and learning from how our nation’s team performs. Head coach Jill Ellis is doing a great job.”
