United States won a fifth Olympic gold medal in Paris defeating in the big final Brazil
The USA women’s national football team triumphed in the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, securing their fifth Olympic gold medal in women’s football.
A tightly contested final against Brazil ended in a 1-0 victory, with Mallory Swanson delivering the decisive blow. A victory that not only marked a significant achievement for the team but also showed Swanson’s pivotal role in the squad, particularly as she was earning her 100th cap.
A Tense First Half
The final, held at the iconic Parc des Princes in Paris, began with a sense of urgency from both teams. Brazil, as after the match perchetly won against Spain, started on the upfront, immediately putting the USA’s defense under pressure. Within the first few minutes, Ludmila, Brazil’s dynamic forward, broke through the American defensive line. However, her attempt lacked the necessary power, allowing the USA’s experienced goalkeeper, Alyssa Naeher, to make a comfortable save.
Brazil continued to dominate the early proceedings, with Ludmila once again causing trouble for the American defence. In the 15th minute, she found herself in space after outmanoeuvering Naomi Girma near the touchline. Ludmila’s subsequent right-footed shot found the back of the net, seemingly giving Brazil the lead. Only Illusions…
Because the assistant referee flagged for offside, correctly identifying that Ludmila had moved slightly too early.
Despite Brazil’s pressure, the USWNT had their own moments in the first half. Mallory Swanson, whose pace was a constant threat, managed to break free in the left channel and forced a solid save from Brazil’s goalkeeper, Lorena. This was a rare moment of concern for the Brazilian defense in the first half, but it foreshadowed what was to come.
Swanson’s Decisive Strike
The second half saw the USA grow into the game, with their confidence visibly increasing. The breakthrough came in the 57th minute, and it was Mallory Swanson who delivered the crucial goal. Swanson, known for her speed, timed her run perfectly to stay onside before calmly side-footing the ball past Lorena. Brazilian defenders appealed for offside, but the goal stood, much to the relief and delight of the American fans.
This goal not only gave the USA the lead but also marked a significant personal milestone for Swanson, who had missed the previous year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup due to tremendous injury. Her return to the squad and her performance in the Olympics, culminating in this gold medal-winning goal, highlighted her resilience and importance to the team.
Brazil’s Resilient Effort
After going behind, Brazil intensified their efforts to find an equalizer. The introduction of the legendary and extremely experienced Marta during the second half added experience and creativity to their attack. However, the USA’s defense, marshalled by the experienced Alyssa Naeher, held firm. Naeher, who had already made several crucial saves in the first half, continued to be a wall between the Brazilian attackers and the American goal.
In the final minutes, Brazil pushed forward relentlessly, but the USA’s defense remained organized and disciplined. Despite Brazil’s best efforts, including a few close attempts, they were unable to find the back of the net. The USA, on the other hand, had opportunities to extend their lead, with both Trinity Rodman and Sophia Smith coming close but failing to convert.
Voices after the Match
Emma Hayes, the USA head coach that debuted few weeks ago on a very challenging charge, was visibly emotional after the final whistle. Hayes expressed her gratitude and pride: “I’m moved, extremely emotional. It’s been a dream of mine and I have to thank my dad. My dad was the one who pushed me to this position, to be able to come and coach an unbelievable group of players. My thoughts to my dad, and all das that are pushing their daughter for reaching their dreams…”
Gabi Portilho, who had one of the best chances for her team, praised the USA’s goalkeeper: “Naher was truly good today. We had our opportunities. And we regret for missing it. But this silver medal will surely help out in growing Brazilian football because and new generations of players. We’re still a very young, talented and motivated group here. Our path is just began…”
The 2024 Olympic gold medal in women’s football adds another chapter to the storied history of the USA women’s national team. With this victory, they have now won the Olympic title five times, further cementing their legacy as one of the most successful teams in the sport. But USA never won an Olympic and a World title back to back. And this will be the challenge in Brazil, during the next Womens World Cup 2027.
