Emma Hayes has made a roaring start to life as coach of the United States women’s national soccer team after the Americans clinched the Olympic title with a 1-0 victory over Brazil on Saturday.
Mallory Swanson’s beautiful finish in the second half sealed the game for the USA.
Hayes took over the USWNT after being eliminated from last year’s World Cup in the round of 16. The team looked revitalized under the Englishwoman and won all five games before Saturday’s final, although the last two came in extra time.
“I am very excited. It’s a dream of mine to be in this position,” Hayes said after the game. “I have to thank my father because he was the one who pushed me here to be able to coach an incredible group of players who welcomed me so well and accepted everything I asked. They are incredible people, actors and models. Yes, I love them.
The victory also marks the U.S.’s fifth Olympic gold medal in women’s soccer, and its first since 2012.
Marta, Brazil’s brilliant captain, who would almost certainly play her last major tournament, had to settle for silver. Despite having one of the greatest careers in the history of women’s football, she never won a World Cup or an Olympic title.
Brazil had chances, but were frustrated on several occasions by American goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher, including a save from Adriana in stoppage time.
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