USWNT produces insane comeback to reach U-20 World Cup semifinal
For all intents and purposes, the U.S. under-20 women's national team was out of the World Cup.
Germany scored in the 92nd minute on Sunday night to go 2-0 up on the U.S. in their quarterfinal matchup. Needing two goals with second-half stoppage time well underway, the U.S. looked certain to be going home.
But Tracey Kevins’ side refused to admit defeat, managing a comeback for the ages to stun the Germans and reach the World Cup semifinal.
Germany took control of the quarterfinal with a goal from the penalty spot in the 61st minute, with Loreen Bender scoring an insurance goal that seemed to end the match.
But in the 98th minute, Florida State star Jordynn Dudley controlled a long pass from Ally Lemos and raced behind the German defense, finishing low past goalkeeper Rebecca Adamczyk to give the Americans a chance.
But with only eight minutes of stoppage time initially allotted, it appeared that Dudley's goal would be a mere consolation. Incredibly, the U.S. found an improbable equalizer less than 90 seconds later.
Maddie Dahlien beat her defender on the right flank and got a cross off, which Ally Sentnor turned home after getting in front of Adamczyk to apply the vital touch.
From there, the stunned Germans and buoyant Americans played out 30 minutes of scoreless soccer before the game entered a penalty shootout.
Sentnor, Riley Jackson and Leah Klenke buried their penalties for the U.S. while two German players missed and a third saw her attempt saved by Teagan Wy — sending the Americans to the last four.
After an all-timer of a comeback, the U.S. will aim to reach the final for the first time since 2012 when it faces North Korea in the semifinal on Wednesday. The winner will face either Japan or the Netherlands in the final on Sunday.