USWNT defeat the Netherlands to become record four-time FIFA Women’s World Cup champions

The United States Women’s National Team won back-to-back FIFA Women’s World Cup titles as they defeated the Netherlands 2-0 in the final in Lyon. 

The Netherlands gave the USWNT a tough run for their money, as goalkeeper and captain Sari van Veenendaal made some splendid saves in the first half to keep the holders at bay. However, their stubborn defense could not resist the constant attacks by the United States, as defender Stefanie van der Gragt caught Alex Morgan with a controversial high boot 15 minutes after half-time. 

United States captain Megan Rapinoe continued her blistering form in the tournament as she fired her side ahead from the penalty spot. Eight minutes later, Rose Lavelle darted from midfield and scored a sensational solo goal to end any hopes of a Netherlands comeback. 

The USWNT, who are the most successful women’s football team of all time, lifted their fourth FIFA Women’s World Cup trophy in France. They remained unbeaten in the tournament as they became only the second team after Germany to retain their World Cup crown. 

Jill Ellis’ side, ranked first in the world, were favourites coming into the 2019 tournament. They ripped apart Thailand 13-0 in their first match and went onto score early in every match till the final against the Netherlands.

Their opponents, ranked eighth in the world, are current European champions, who played their first-ever World Cup final. In what was a pulsating finale between the two nations, the USWNT overcame the physical battle with the Orange Lionesses to land home another FIFA Women’s World Cup trophy. 

Megan Rapinoe ended the tournament on six goals alongside teammate Alex Morgan, but the 34-year old was handed the Golden Boot by virtue of having played fewer minutes than Morgan. 

Rapinoe, who was challenged by US President Donald Trump to “win before she talks” after she said that her team would not visit the White House, had a brilliant campaign. Her celebration in the 2-1 win against hosts France will remain as one of the iconic moments in World Cup history. 

Following their FIFA Women’s World Cup victory, the United States Women’s National Team will surely be now considered as the greatest women’s football team ever.