You can watch the USWNT match against Canada and see the highlights. Learn about Jessie Fleming’s penalty kick, Emily Sonnet’s goal, as well as Canada's energy. Canada had its moments of brilliance, despite the dominance by USWNT.
Canada's penalty kick
The USWNT had Canada's defenders in a panic during the first period. Canada's goalkeeper Kailen Sheridan as well as Kadeisha, the defender, were pivotal in Canada's defense. Sheridan secured the match's win. Canada's chances came from Nichelle Prince, who was proving to be more of a threat than right back Sofia Huerta.
Jessie Fleming's penalty kick
Canada's Jessie Fleming made a penalty kick at the 75th minute. It helped Canada win the semifinals and advanced to the gold match. Tierna, USA's goalkeeper, fouled Fleming. She confidently sent the penalty goal to the far right corner beating US goalkeeper AD Franch. This was Canada’s maiden win over the United States after more than twenty years.
Emily Sonnet's goal
Emily Sonnett is a highly accomplished player in the United States women’s football league. She was a First-Team All-American twice and the Most Outstanding Defensive player at the 2014 NCAA Championships. In 2015, she won the ACC Defensive Player of the Year. She was also awarded the ESPNW Soccer Player-of-the Year award. She graduated from UVA and was then eligible to enter the NWSL draft. In the semi-finals of the 2016 NWSL Championship she scored her pro debut against the Western New York Flash. She earned her first senior-level cap and was an alternate at Rio Olympics.
Canada's energy
Canada's team was energetic during the first match against the U.S. The match ended tied at the half-time with 1-0 between the two countries. Canada's energy level was high through the first half, and continued to be vibrant as the match progressed. The United States had more energy off the bench, but the Canadian team dug deep and set the pace, which was disjointed at times, which suited them perfectly.
Emily Sonnet's penalty kick
Emily Sonnet's penalty kick set a new record, breaking a 969-minute old record. She accepted the penalty kick and scored despite wearing a cast to her right arm. The strike was her first international goal. Sonnett scored the strike in the 34th minutes. Ashley Sanchez was also on the scoresheet in the 35th minute.
Canada's second half energy
The US Women's National Team (USWNT) showed some attacking energy during the second half of their match against Canada. They started to push forward with several half chances, including one from Lindsey Horan that was off-target. Canada's defense fought back and withstood the US pressure. Canada continued to resist the US's pressure, and Alex Morgan nearly scored a goal.
Canada's energy during the first half
The USWNT came out from the break with a sombre tone. But Canada has emerged with a lot more energy. They are pressing Canada’s back line, and their defenders are scrambling. Canada's defense has stood strong. Kailen Prince and Nichelle Princess have made some important saves. The latter earned a corner goal and a penalty kick.