Top 5 Moments In US Women's Soccer Team History
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- With excitement still burning over the U.S. women's soccer team victory over No. 1-ranked Germany Tuesday evening, we thought it'd be great to look back at some of the team's top moments in its (relatively young) history.
When The 'Fab Five' Formed
In the summer of 1987, three teens – Mia Hamm, Joy Fawcett and Kristine Lilly – joined a then-struggling U.S. women's national team. The next summer, Brandi Chastain and Julie Foudy joined, forming what would be known as the Fab Five. They won two World Cups and two Olympic gold medals together, so no big deal. The Fab Five dominated the sport until 2004.
1991 World Cup
In the first-ever Women's World Cup, the US women's team showed everybody what's up. Striker Michelle Akers was a highlight of the tournament, scoring 10 goals – including both in the 2-1 win over Norway in the final.
1999 World Cup
This is arguably the biggest moment in the team's history. The 1999 Women's World Cup was played up big time in the media and the team did not disappoint. In the final game against China, Fab Five member Brandi Chastain scored over the goalie in a penalty kick shootout after an entire scoreless game. She then provided the iconic image after she ripped off her jersey and fell to her knees in elation (pictured above). Gives ya goosebumps!
2008 Olympic Gold
Winning Olympic gold in soccer is amazing enough, but to do it without two of the team's best? Well, that's what they did, beating Brazil 1-0 without Kristine Lilly (took tournament off to give birth) and Abby Wambach (broke her leg earlier that summer). Midfielder Carli Lloyd takes the honor of scoring the only goal for the U.S.
2011 Women's World Cup
After barely qualifying for the 2011 World Cup (and the Fab Five long disbanded), the team managed to improve its play and make it to the finals, where they beat Brazil 4-3 on penalty kicks. Interestingly enough, the game was played on the 12th anniversary of the 1999 win, which was also won with penalty kick shootout.
Do you agree with the selection? Let us know your favorite moment in the comments below.