USWNT advances to Olympic soccer semifinals after dramatic extra time victory over Japan

CNN —

The US women’s team booked its spot in the semifinals of the women’s soccer competition with a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Japan on Saturday.

Trinity Rodman’s curling effort in the first half of extra time was enough to separate the two teams as the US progresses to the final four.

It was an attritional game for the US, which struggled to break down a resolute Japan side despite having the majority of possession.

But coach Emma Hayes’ side — the top scorers in the group stage — maintained its 100% winning record at the Paris Games with the victory.

“Oh, it was very tactical. That’s why I liked it so much. It was a match of grit and determination,” Hayes said afterwards. “It was decided by one moment of brilliance.

“I really like this Japan team. I always enjoy watching them. They are a great team. Our defenders today were absolutely amazing. Everyone in our team stuck to their tasks.”

The USWNT will face either Canada or Germany in the semifinals, with the two playing later on Saturday in Marseille.

US players celebrate after beating Japan and advancing to the semifinal.

The US women have won four gold medals in the Olympic Games — including a three-peat from 2004 to 2012 — but have gone without winning the competition since London 12 years ago, losing in the quarterfinals to Sweden in 2016 and winning the bronze medal in Tokyo three years ago.

Historically one of the most dominant soccer teams at the Olympics, the US is looking to shake off a disappointing last few major tournaments.

And it made a strong start to the tournament, winning all three of its group games to set up its clash with Japan in the last eight.

From the opening exchanges, the US was the more imposing of the two teams, having more