The Portland Thorns’ “From Portland to Paris” Olympic coverage is presented by Alaska Airlines.
USA 4-1 Germany
The United States Women's National Team defeated Germany 4-1 to secure a spot in the quarter-finals at the Paris Olympics. Portland Thorns striker Sophia Smith scored twice, with additional goals from Mallory Swanson and Lynn Williams, marking another strong performance for the US under new coach Emma Hayes.
Thorns midfielder Sam Coffey played 90 minutes in the win, while Smith received a standing ovation when substituted out in the 85th minute. The US will conclude group play against Australia in Marseille on Wednesday, July 31st.
France 1-2 Canada
Thorns midfielder Jessie Fleming scored and went 90 minutes as Vanessa Gilles’ 102nd minute winning-goal kept Canada’s qualification hopes alive with a 2-1 win over France in Saint-Etienne. Thorns winger Janine Beckie came on in the 67th minute to hep secure the victory.
Australia 6-5 Zambia
Mackenzie Arnold and Australia staged a dramatic comeback to beat Zambia 6-5 in Nice, with Michelle Heyman scoring the decisive goal in the 90th minute. Steph Catley scored twice, and an own goal by Ngambo Musole sparked Australia's fightback after Zambia led 5-2 early in the second half to secure a historic victory for the Matildas.
Spain 1-0 Nigeria
World Cup champion Spain defeated Nigeria 1-0, securing their place in the quarterfinals with two wins in Group C. Alexia Putellas scored the decisive goal in the 85th minute, curling a free kick past goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie at Stade de la Beaujoire in Nantes. The Thorns defender Nicole Payne came on in the match in the 72nd minute.
