LA Times · Jun 30, 2015
U.S.-Germany semifinal in Women's World Cup a study in contrasts
Morgan Brien (14) and Carli Lloyd (10) celebrate Lloyd's goal in USA's 1-0 quarterfinal win over China.Carli Lloyd was right.
To break out of its offensive lethargy and truly put a stamp on this Women's World Cup, the U.S. had to first break out of its comfort zone, she said. It had to take risks, had to try new things.
In the quarterfinal against China the U.S. did all of that, giving Amy Rodriguez her first start of the tournament up front and using Morgan Brian as a holding midfielder in the back, clearing Lloyd to roam free. The result was a tournament-high 17 shots, a 1-0 win — on a second-half goal by Lloyd — and a spot for the U.S. in the semifinals.