USA vs Germany: Women’s Football Tournament Preview, Paris 2024 Olympics Semi-Final

As the Paris 2024 Olympics reach their climax, the women's football tournament has narrowed down to its final four contenders: USA, Germany, Spain, and Brazil. The first semi-final match will witness a high-stakes encounter between the USA Women's National Team (USWNT) and Germany, promising an electrifying contest for a place in the gold medal match.

Road to the Semi-Finals

The quarter-final stage was nothing short of exhilarating, with three out of four matches extending into extra time and two decided by penalty shootouts. The USWNT, four-time Olympic gold medalists, demonstrated their resilience by defeating Japan in a nail-biting match. A brilliant extra-time goal from Trinity Rodman, set up by Crystal Dunn, secured a 1-0 victory and a spot in the semi-finals.

Germany, on the other hand, faced reigning Olympic champions Canada in a tense battle that also required extra time. The match ultimately went to penalties, where Ann-Katrin Berger's remarkable performance—saving two penalties and scoring one herself—propelled Germany to the semi-finals.

Previous Encounters

This semi-final clash marks the second meeting between the USA and Germany in this tournament. In their group stage encounter, the USWNT dominated with a 4-1 victory. Historically, the USA has had the upper hand, winning 24 of their 36 previous meetings, with seven draws and five wins for Germany.

Team News

USA: Since Emma Hayes took charge of the USWNT in late May, the team has remained unbeaten, boasting a record of seven wins, zero losses, and one draw. For this crucial match, Hayes has a full squad at her disposal, with Sam Coffey returning from suspension.

Germany: Coach Horst Hrubesch is likely to stick with the lineup that triumphed over Canada. Kathrin Hendrich and Marina Hegering are expected to anchor the defense, while Lea Schuller, with three goals in the tournament, remains a key offensive threat.

Key Players

USA - Trinity Rodman: A rising star in American football, Trinity Rodman has been instrumental in the USWNT's success in Paris. With three goals and one assist, her dynamic play has been pivotal. Rodman, along with teammates Malory Swanson and Sophia Smith, has accounted for most of the USA's goals in the tournament.

Germany - Ann-Katrin Berger: The NJ/NY Gotham FC goalkeeper's heroics in the quarter-finals were crucial to Germany's advancement. Having saved two penalties and scored the decisive one against Canada, Berger's experience and resilience make her a key player for Germany in the semi-final.

Match Details

• Venue: Olympique Lyonnais’ Groupama Stadium, Décines
• Capacity: 59,186 spectators
• Date and Time: Tuesday, August 6, at 6:00 PM CET
• Broadcast: France Télévisions and Eurosport (France), BBC (UK), NBC (USA)

Conclusion

The USA vs. Germany semi-final is set to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams showcasing remarkable talent and determination. As they battle for a spot in the gold medal match, fans can expect an intense and unforgettable match at the Paris 2024 Olympics.