Back to the Soccer Newsfeed

Women's World Cup: U.S. semifinal win pivots on pair of penalty kicks

Carli Lloyd scored a controversial penalty kick moments after Celia Sasic missed from the spot as the U.S. booked a trip to the final with a 1-0 win over Germany.

MONTREAL — Julie Johnston has been one of the breakout stars of this Women's World Cup, helping lift the U.S. national team to its second straight appearance in the final. But for a few anxious moments Tuesday, that dream run turned into a nightmare scenario.

With the U.S. and Germany scoreless in the 59th minute at Olympic Stadium, Johnston attempted to corral a bouncing ball in the box.