Sophia Smith (11) of USWNT celebrates scoring goal during pre-Olympic friendly match against Mexico at Red Bull Arena in Harrison^ NJ on July 13^ 2024. USWNT won 1 - 0

The U.S. women’s soccer team defeated fourth-ranked Germany 1-0 in a semifinal rematch in Lyon on Tuesday. Sophia Smith scored in extra time to help Team USA earn a spot in the gold medal match at the Paris Olympics.

Smith said after the match: “I felt a lot of emotions. I was relieved, I was happy. We have a special connection with Mal. It’s like I know where she will be, and she knows where I will be at all times. That was key for our goal tonight. It was a really tough game, and our defense was amazing. What can I say about them?”

The Americans, undefeated in the Paris games under new coach Emma Hayes, will be vying for their fifth gold medal in their sixth appearance in the Olympic women’s soccer final. The USWNT will play for the gold medal on Saturday in Paris.

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