For the first time since 2012, the United States advanced to the women’s Olympic football competition final after defeating Germany in extra time.
The US took the lead thanks to a goal from Sophia Smith, a 23-year-old striker who raced on to Mallory Swanson’s pass in the 95th minute and slipped the ball past the charging Ann-Katrin Berger, goalkeeper for Germany.
Emma Hayes’ team had been unable to overcome a determined Germany team up to that point, losing 4-1 in the group round.
Germany, the 2016 Olympic champions, almost forced extra time, but US goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher made a fantastic stop on Laura Freigang’s header in the 119th minute.
Former Chelsea manager Hayes’ side will now face Brazil or Spain in Saturday’s final at the Parc des Princes (16:00 BST), while Germany will play for the bronze medal in Lyon on Friday (14:00).