The dream to win the historic fifth gold is closer than ever for the USWNT. Tuesday evening saw Emma Hayes’ side book their place into the Paris Olympics 2024 final after clinching a narrow victory over Germany. The only goal of the semifinal clash remains the courtesy of Sophia Smith, who, aside from garnering praise from the fans, got a special 2-word commendation from none other than Alexis Ohanian.

The husband of tennis icon Serena Williams has been fervently cheering for his nation’s ladies in the ongoing summer games as he is on the moon to see Team USA compete for gold. Following the win, Ohanian took to Instagram stories to share a USWNT post of Sophia running to celebrate her winner. Additionally, he wrote a caption saying, “Well done @sophsssmith!!. Onward @uswnt.”

Remarkably, today’s match echoed Emma Hayes’ previous quarter-final encounter against Japan, where Trinity Rodman’s late goal secured their spot in the semifinals. Against Germany, the game remained scoreless for the entire 90 minutes, with neither team able to break the deadlock. Fortunately, Smith netted the first goal, just five minutes into extra time, assisted by Mallory Swanson.

Interestingly, Germany appears to be Smith’s favored opponent. The Portland Thorns forward netted a brace in the previous encounter when the USWNT dominated Germany 4-1 in the group stages. However, things were different this time as Horst Hrubesch’s side came prepared. Clearly, Hayes and Co. struggled to find goals, despite dominating most of the game with possession and a high attacking line.

Luckily, it was the right place and right time moment for Sophia, who managed to score her third goal in the Paris Olympics to take her nation to the gold medal match. While you know the story of her goal, might we interest you with what happened in the aftermath of the celebrations?

Sophia Smith got blacked out after scoring the winner during USWNT vs Germany

Scoring the winning goal in an Olympic semifinal is an unforgettable highlight in Sophia Smith’s career. However, the Portland Thorns star might not remember this crucial moment, as she had passed out after netting the decisive goal. Speaking to NBC’s Mike Tirico, “Honestly, I don’t remember anything that just happened the past 100-and-however-many minutes.“

Such effects tend to occur in such a physically exhausting match. Regardless, Smith must be satisfied to have paid the price as it was needed to keep their Olympic dreams alive. They will now face Brazil in the finals, who are coming in the final by winning a remarkable 6-goal thriller against the formidable Spain.

Marta and Co. were ahead 6 minutes into the game, eventually doubling their lead before the end of the first half. It was 3-0 just after the hour mark before Spain added one to reignite their hopes to turn things around. However, the stoppage time saw Brazil get their fourth as the Spaniard’s second goal in the final minutes proved too late for a comeback.

While the USA and Brazil contest for the gold, Spain and Germany will fight for the bronze.