The four-time women’s Olympic football champions, the United States, will face 2016 champions Germany on Tuesday for a place in the final. The world champions, Spain, meet Brazil fresh from their win over hosts France.
The US, who needed extra time to get past Japan 1-0 in the quarterfinals, again meets Germany whom they routed 4-1 in group play. But Emma Hayes’ team knows it’s in for far greater fight as Germany competing in its fifth straight Olympic semifinal looks for payback. “You saw in the group stage they scored four goals against us. We want to give it back to them,” said Germany defender Giulia Gwinn.
Spain will face a re-match against Brazil, coming from behind to win on penalties against Colombia, whom they defeated 2-0 in their first round. Twice silver medallists Brazil, in their sixth Olympic semi-final, eye another upset at Marseille Stadium despite the absence of their suspended captain Marta. The 38-year-old Marta received a two-match ban following a red card for a dangerous challenge in the group stage.
Defender Tamires spoke of the mental resilience of Brazil. “Everything we have gone through has taught us valuable lessons and helped us improve.” Spain goalkeeper Cata Coll spoke about her team’s ambition: “We know what we’re capable of, we don’t feel any pressure. What defines us is that we are ambitious.”
SPAIN, AT ITS OLYMPICS DEBUT, will therefore look to further add to their trophy count with both World Cup and UEFA Nations League victories. They will become the first world champions to win at subsequent Olympics.
