Paris Olympics: US women win soccer gold with 1-0 victory over Brazil

American striker Mallory Swanson celebrates her only goal in the women’s Olympic soccer final in Paris.
Photo: AFP

The United States won a record fifth Olympic gold medal in women’s soccer after Mallory Swanson led them to a 1-0 victory over Brazil in the final at the Parc des Princes.

After a scoreless first half, Swanson broke the deadlock 12 minutes after the break to give the US its first Olympic title since London 2012 after a perfect run of games in the tournament.

American coach Emma Hayes achieved almost immediate success, winning the title just two months after taking office.

“I’m very emotional, it’s a dream of mine to be in this position,” a tearful Hayes told Eurosport. “I have to thank my dad for pushing me to this point, to be able to come and coach an incredible group of players who have welcomed me so well.

“(They’ve) done everything I asked, they’re great people, players and role models. I love them.”

Brazil were dangerous in the opening stages and came close to scoring when Gabi Portilho forced a great save from Alyssa Naeher just before half-time. Naeher did well again in injury time to save Adriana’s header from close range.

Brazilian star Marta returned from a two-match suspension for a red card, coming on as a substitute after an hour. However, he failed to make much of an impact as Brazil were defeated by the Americans in their third Olympic final.

Germany defeated Spain 1-0 to win the bronze medal on Friday.

Swanson, making her 100th international appearance, found the net with a low goal after a solo run and a superb pass from Korbin Albert that cut through the Brazilian defence.

It was her fourth goal of the tournament.

Brazil failed to capitalise on three big chances they had to send the match into extra time, but they did receive a loud applause from the fans after the final whistle.

It was an intense and evenly matched duel, cheered on by a large crowd in the Paris St Germain stadium, including former American Ballon d’Or winner Megan Rapinoe, former Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger and Tom Cruise.

“The crowd were amazing, Brazil were amazing, I’m speechless,” added former Chelsea manager Hayes.

-Reuters