“This Team Has Always Fought” – Spotted Laughing After Missing Penalty, Megan Rapinoe Divulges on USWNT’s Exit From the World Cup

The recent exit of the United States Women’s National Team (USWNT) from the FIFA Women’s World Cup has left both fans and analysts disappointed. After a lackluster performance in the group stages, and then failing to advance past Sweden in the round of 16, veteran player Megan Rapinoe has been at the forefront of discussions.

Rapinoe, who was substituted in the 99th minute against Sweden, also missed a crucial penalty in the shootout that ultimately led to the team’s loss. However, her reaction of smiling after the missed penalty has drawn criticism from fans. While it is important to acknowledge the disappointment of the loss, it is equally important to understand Rapinoe’s perspective and her subsequent comments in a post-match interview.

Megan Rapinoe shares her thoughts following the disappointing loss

For Rapinoe, this World Cup marked her final tournament as she had previously announced her retirement from the USWNT following the competition. Unfortunately, her journey ended on a sour note, leaving a bitter taste in her mouth. Despite this, Rapinoe took a positive approach to addressing the loss and discussing her team’s performance.

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In the post-match interview, she shared her thoughts, stating, “I thought we played really well. I’m so happy for us that we went out like that. Playing the way that we did”. She also acknowledged her missed penalty chance and called it “like a sick joke”.

Rapinoe further added, “For me personally this is dark comedy, I missed a penalty. I mean Alyssa came up huge though, kept us in it, obviously Scoring one herself. This is the balance to the beautiful side of the game, I think it can be cruel. Just not our day”.

The forward then sent her bittersweet goodbyes. “But I still just feel really grateful and joyful,” Rapinoe added. “I know it’s the end and that’s sad. Just how much I love playing for this team and this country. Yeah it’s been an honor”. Megan Rapinioe also talked about the good memories she shared with fellow teammates.

Rapinoe shares her best memory with the USWNT

Throughout her career, Rapinoe has been a vocal advocate for equality and social justice. She has used her platform as an elite athlete to champion important causes, such as LGBTQ+ rights and gender equality. And it was this fight for equal pay that Rapinoe considers her best memory. “I mean probably equal pay chance after the final. I think you know there is an equal pay, but could’ve been saying lot of things,” she added when asked about her best memory.

USWNT has been at the forefront of changing the narrative around women’s soccer. The OL Reigns forward did acknowledge it and commended her teammates. Rapinoe concluded, “I think this team has always fought for so much more and that’s been the most rewarding part for me. Of course, playing in world cups, winning championships, and doing all that. To know that we have used our really special talent to do something that’s really changed the world forever”.

It is important to analyze Rapinoe’s reaction and comments in the context of her overall contributions to the game. While her journey may have ended on a bittersweet note, her positive mindset and resilience will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression.

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