The U.S. women’s national team is moving on to the knockout rounds — but only after a shaky and unconvincing 0-0 draw with Portugal on Tuesday.
Team USA entered the game with the edge in Group E but quickly found itself clinging to desperation as the Dutch fired off multiple first-half goals against Vietnam to take commanding control of the group.
Still, all the U.S. needed was a win or a draw against Portugal to secure a spot in the Round of 16.
The Americans were uninspiring and anxious over 90 minutes against Portugal on Tuesday and were nearly bounced from the tournament. In stoppage time, Portuguese striker Ana Capeta waltzed through the U.S. defense, and beat goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher.
But her low shot struck the post and caromed off to safety.
The U.S. held on for a 0-0 draw, which secured its progression to the knockout stages.
Read Henry Bushnell’s full match recap right here.
