Rapinoe stars as US secure spot in women’s football semis

TOKYO: Megan Rapinoe scored the winning penalty ater goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher saved two spot-kicks as the United States defeated the Netherlands 4-2 in a shootout following a 2-2 draw to remain on course for a fith Olympic women’s football title.

Vivianne Miedema fired the Dutch ahead in Yokohoma but two quick goals from Samantha Mewis and Lynn Williams put the USA in control in a repeat of the 2019 World Cup final, won by the Americans.

Miedema scored her second of the night to level early in the second half but Lieke Martens saw her late penalty saved by Naeher, with both sides having goals ruled out for offside in extra time.

The USA lost to Sweden in a 2016 quarter-final but converted all four atempts this time, with Naeher denying Miedema and Aniek Nouwen to send the world champions through to a semi-final clash against neighbours Canada.

Earlier, Sam Kerr scored twice as Australia beat Team GB 4-3 ater extra time to reach the last four, while 2016 bronze medallists Canada edged Brazil on penalties following a goalless draw.

Britain appeared on course for the semi-finals as two second-half goals from Ellen White gave them a 2-1 lead ater Alanna Kennedy headed the Australians ahead in Kashima.

Kerr equalised in the 89th minute to force extra time, with Australia goalkeeper Teagan Micah saving Caroline Weir’s penalty before Mary Fowler’s deflected strike put the Matildas in front.

Kerr powered in a header to extend Australia’s advantage and it proved crucial as White completed her hat-trick with five minutes to play.

Australia will meet Sweden on Monday for a place in the final. Goals from Magda Eriksson and Stina Blackstenius plus Kosovare Asllani’s penalty secured Sweden a 3-1 victory over hosts Japan in Saitama.

Canada defeated Brazil 4-3 in a penalty shootout in Rifu. Goalkeeper Stephanie Labbe saved the final two Brazilian spot-kicks from Andressa and Rafaelle ater Christine Sinclair failed with Canada’s first atempt.