USWNT shocked by Sweden in early exit in knockout stages

Sunday morning marked the knockout stage for USWNT and going into the match against Sweden, fans were uneasy. Team USA has not looked like the dominate team everyone expected them to be and got into the knockout round by the skins of their teeth. In order to pull out the victory they would have to find some way to put the ball in the net. The winner of this game would advance to the quarterfinals, while the loser would pack their back and exit the tournament.

Instead of letting the game come to them, there was a sense of urgency as soon as the ball touched the ground for Team USA. As we have seen in recent games, Team USA have been for the most part conservative until late in the second half. Trinity Rodman had a much better half than what she had previously. Rodman had two on the goal shots that curved left instead of hitting inside the net, but it was a welcomed sight to see. Rodman has struggled to find her stride in the last two games, but this game was much different.

For the most part, Team USA controlled the first half with having the ball in their possession. 52% of the time. You have to give it to Sweden and their goalkeeper Zecira Musovic. Musovic stop five potential goals that would be in favor of Team USA. Despite having o ne heck of a half for the U.S., they walked into the locker room without anything to show for it.

Going into the second half, Team USA wanted to keep up the intensity as well as keep the pressure on Sweden. Musovic was a thorn in Team USA's side. Each time it seemed like Team USA would get a goal on a corner kick, Musovic would come in and make a spectacular save. Team USA had their chances in regulation, but both teams had to settle their differences in extra minutes.

Musovic came up huge for Sweden as Team USA had two chances to end the game with goals, but Musovic once again stole the show. Both teams did not score in extra minutes, so they had to settle it in penalty kicks. Sweden went onto win the penalty round 5-4.