US women win gold thanks to Swanson striking victory against Brazil

Mallory Swanson’s goal in Saturday’s 1-0 victory against Brazil in the Olympic women’s soccer final at Parc des Princes gave the United States a record-tying fifth gold medal.

After a scoreless first half, Swanson broke the tie 12 minutes into the second half, giving the United States its first Olympic victory since London 2012. They went undefeated in the competition.

Emma Hayes, the coach for the United States, was almost immediately successful as she won the championship in just two months on the job.

A sobbing Hayes told Eurosport, “I’m very emotional, it’s a dream of mine to be in this position.” “I owe a debt of gratitude to my father for pushing me to this point, which has allowed me to come and mentor this amazing group of players who have been so kind to me.

“They are amazing individuals, players, and role models who have done all I have asked of them. I cherish them.

Brazil looked threatening early on, and just before halftime, Gabi Portilho nearly scored after drawing a fantastic save from Alyssa Naeher. In injury time, Naeher performed admirably once more to block Adriana’s header at close range.

“It’s Brazil, we know they’re such a tough opponent, we knew it wasn’t going to be easy, they weren’t going to give us anything,” American defender Crystal Dunn said to the press.

“We had faith that everyone would do their duties, and I’m incredibly pleased of the backline—Alyssa is a huge addition to the squad, of course.

“It just came down to trusting everyone was going to do their job.”

MARTA IS BACK

The legendary Brazilian Marta made his comeback following a two-match suspension for a red card, substituting in after the hour. However, his effect was little as Brazil lost to the United States in the Olympic final for the third time.

On Friday, Germany defeated Spain 1-0 to take home the bronze.
Swanson, playing for her 100th country, broke through the Brazilian defense with a solo run and a brilliant ball from Korbin Albert to find the back of the net with a low finish.

It was her fourth tournament goal.

Although Brazil was unable to take advantage of the three excellent opportunities they produced to push the game into extra time, its supporters gave them a standing ovation as the final whistle blew.

“We pressed, we did our best, we knew it was going to be a difficult game, and I think we were better in the first half,” midfielder Adriana of Brazil stated.

“We didn’t manage to score in our chances and they scored on their best chance, but I’m confident we are going to develop into a better team.”

Tom Cruise, former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, American former Ballon d’Or winner Megan Rapinoe, and a large audience of supporters applauded the match, which was heated and evenly fought.

Former Chelsea manager Hayes continued, “The crowd was tremendous, Brazil was tremendous, I’m speechless.”