The USA women’s national team reclaimed their position at the top of women’s football with a 1-0 victory over Brazil in the final of the Paris 2024 Olympics, securing their fifth gold medal in the tournament’s history.
Mallory Swanson emerged as the hero for the Americans, scoring the decisive goal in the 57th minute. This match marked Swanson’s 100th cap for the national team, adding a significant milestone to her career.
The game, held at the Parc des Princes, was tightly contested. Brazil, in search of their first Olympic gold medal in women’s football, had an early goal disallowed due to an offside call on Ludmila in the 16th minute.
In the second half, Swanson capitalized on a precise through pass from Korbin Albert, moving into a perfect position to score past Brazilian goalkeeper Lorena. The USA maintained their lead despite intense pressure from Brazil, who introduced the legendary Marta late in the game after her suspension kept her out of the quarterfinals and semifinals.
Brazil’s best chance to equalize came in the fourth minute of stoppage time when Adriana’s header was expertly saved by US goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher, ensuring the gold medal for the USA.
This victory reaffirms the USA’s dominance in women’s football, as they extend their record with six Olympic gold medals, having won all six of their matches in the tournament.
