USWNT Fight Back, Silince Critics



Photo: Marcio Jose Sanchez / AP

 After all the unbelievable drama surrounding the 2011 Women's World Cup Quarterfinal match between the U.S. and Brazil it all came down to one play and one player who always seems to find herself right in the middle of most USWNT drama - goalkeeper, Hope Solo.

With quite possibly the most important penalty kick save in women's soccer history, Solo and the rest of the U.S. women not only silenced the many critics but also helped bring soccer back into the American conscious.

U.S. head coach PIA SUNDHAGE

On the drama of the match:

“I have no words. Phenomenal. The goal and then the PKs. Someone is writing this book. There is something about the American attitude to find a way to win. Unbelievable.“

With a slow start to this years World Cup Abby Wambach has now scored in two straight matches including her header that secured the tie for the Americans and kept them alive.

Abby Wambach On her goal:

“It was a perfect ball. (Megan Rapinoe) got an opportunity down the left flank and sent the ball in. It just popped over that defender's head. I was sitting on that back post. I’m so happy it went in.”

Now needing to beat France on Wednesday to advance to the Championship match of this years Women's World Cup in Germany, the USWNT will hope to ride the confidence earned from their amazing and surely instant classic win over 5-time FIFA Women's Player of The Year Marta and an always formidable opponent in Brazil.

The match will be July 13, 2011 on ESPN at 11:30 p.m.