On Aug. 1, the United States National Women's Team (USWNT) finished as runner-up in Group E and advanced to the Women's World Cup round of 16 (the knockout round) after being held to a 0-0 draw.
The Netherlands, the top team in Group E, advanced to the knockout round with a 7-0 win over Vietnam. (The United States beat Vietnam 3-0 several days ago.)
The Portugal team almost snatched victory in stoppage time when striker Ana Capeta's kick hit the post. Had it gone in, the USWNT would've crashed out of the tournament, ESPN noted.
The United States had never lost to Portugal in 10 previous meetings, outscoring the Portuguese 39-0, according to NPR.
The United States teamthe two-time defending champion, but relatively inexperienced compared to the previous American squadswill next take on Sweden on Sunday, Aug. 6, at 4 a.m.
Andrew Davis