The United States women’s football team secured their fifth Olympic gold medal by defeating Brazil 1-0 in a thrilling final match at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. The match took place on August 10, 2024, at the Parc des Princes, where both teams displayed intense determination and skill.
Mallory Swanson, playing in her 100th international match for the USA, became the hero of the day. She scored the game’s only goal just before the hour mark, skillfully finishing past Brazil’s goalkeeper, Lorena. Swanson’s goal was a crucial moment in a match that saw both teams battling under the hot Parisian sun.
Brazil, led by their legendary captain Marta, fought valiantly throughout the game. However, despite their efforts, they couldn’t find a way past the resilient American defense. Marta, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest female footballers of all time, was playing in her sixth and final Olympic Games at the age of 38.
Unfortunately, her career ended without the elusive gold medal, as Brazil had to settle for silver, just as they did in the 2004 and 2008 Olympic finals against the USA.
The victory marked a significant achievement for the U.S. women’s national team, who last won Olympic gold in 2012. Their triumph in Paris is a testament to the team’s revival under the guidance of their new coach, Emma Hayes.
Hayes, who joined the team in May 2024, has quickly made a significant impact, leading the squad to victories against top teams like Japan and Germany en route to the final.
Brazil’s journey to the final was unexpected but commendable. They advanced through the group stage as one of the best third-placed teams and surprised many by defeating France and World Cup champions Spain in the knockout rounds.
Marta, who had missed these key matches due to a suspension, was brought on as a substitute in the final but was unable to turn the tide in favor of her team.
