US wins fourth Women’s World Cup title, defeating Netherlands 2-0

LYON, France (Heartland Newsfeed) — The women’s team representing the United States has secured its fourth FIFA Women’s World Cup title and second consecutive title, attaining victory against The Netherlands by a score of 2-0 Sunday.

The title match between the defending champions and the northern European team was scoreless at the end of the first 45 minutes, but would not remain deadlocked at 0-0 for long.

A video review revealed that Netherlands player Stefanie van der Gragt kicked the U.S.’ Alex Morgan in the shoulder within the penalty area, with teammate Megan Rapinoe making the penalty kick attempt during the sixty-first minute.

Rapinoe, the 34-year-old U.S. team captain known for her pink hair, made a successful attempt past goalkeeper Sari van Veeenendaal for her fiftieth career international goal, putting the defending champs ahead 1-0.

With the penalty kick goal, it secured her sixth tournament goal, tying teammate Morgan and England’s Ellen White as leading tournament scorers. It also secured her place as the oldest player to score in a Women’s World Cup final.

Rapinoe, who recovered from a strain in the right hamstring in order to play, received a standing ovation from U.S. fans when she walked off during the seventy-ninth minute.