Olympics Recap: Quinn Headed to the Finals
The one semifinal match featuring three OL Reign players ended in heartbreak for team USA, including Rose Lavelle and Megan Rapinoe, after a narrow loss to Canada and fellow OL Reign player Quinn. Quinn is going onto the final to compete for the gold medal against Sweden. Lavelle and Rapinoe will compete in the match for the bronze medal against Australia.
United States vs. Canada
The United States and Canada faced off for the third time in Olympic knock out round history this morning. Quinn and Rose Lavelle got the start and Megan Rapinoe subbed on in the second half.
At the start of the first half, it looked like the United States had complete control of the game. This continued for the first ten minutes, but Canada gradually gained their footing and began to challenge the United States side. In the 20th minute of the match, United States goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher landed awkwardly and picked up a knee injury that forced her to exit the match minutes later. Adrianna Franch suited up to replace her in goal.
Though Canada attempted to test the newly subbed in goalkeeper, the game was a battle for possession between the 18-yard boxes. Neither team found a shot on goal during the first half and neither goalkeeper had to make a save. The teams went to half time level.
The U.S. got off to a much stronger start in the second half, applying high pressure to Canada, who opted to drop and absorb the pressure, defending the United States relentless attacks. The 60th minute brought subs for both teams. Quinn was subbed off for Canada as Rapinoe was subbed on for the United States.
Energized, the United States was knocking at the door, so close to finding the opening goal of the match. Against the run of the play, Canada found a chance to get forward and Deanne Rose was tripped up in the box. After video review, Canada was awarded a penalty kick. Captain Christine Sinclair handed the ball off to Jessie Fleming, who stepped up to the spot and converted the shot to give Canada the lead in the 73rd minute.
The United States frantically searched for an equalizer, but they just could not connect in the attacking third of the field. It was heartbreak for the United States at the final whistle, as Canada beat the U.S. for the first time in 20 years and the first time ever in the Olympics.
Canada will be advancing to the final, where they will compete for the gold medal against Sweden who beat Australia 1-0 in their semifinal match thanks to a 46th minute goal from Fridolina Rolfö. The United States and Australia will face off in the bronze medal match.
Up Next
Finals and Bronze Medal Match – Thursday, August 5
1:00 a.m. PT – Australia vs. USA (Lavelle, Rapinoe)
7:00 p.m. PT – Sweden vs. Canada (Quinn)