Tag: Netherlands

Graphic Courtesy of Natalie Dettmer

USA Repeat as World Cup Champions Winning a Historic 4th WWC Title

Heading into the match it was uncertain if some of the top players on both teams would be able to play. But when the starting lineups were announced the players in question of Megan Rapinoe and Rose Lavelle for the United States and Lieke Martens for the Netherlands were all starting.

Many predicted the United States winning this game by three or four goals and would roll to their fourth title with no problem. The Netherlands were looked at as inexperienced since this was only their second World Cup appearance and first ever finals appearance.

Entering the game the USA had scored a goal in the first 13 minutes of each of their games so far. If the Netherlands could weather the initial storm and not fall to an early goal then perhaps they could put the USA in panic mode and score first.

The USA came out swinging and had high pressure offense on the Netherlands. The Dutch defense proved they were up to the task blocking shots and clearly out any chance the USA had. Perhaps the biggest reason the USA stayed out of the back of the net was because of the Netherlands’ goalkeeper, Sar van Veenendaal, the eventual Gold Glove winner. van Veenedaal made save after save and some from point blank range. None better than her stop on Julie Ertz in the 38th minute.

The Netherlands would go on to blank the USA in the first half for the first time all tournament. The 0-0 scoreline was no surprise for the Netherlands who had been tied at halftime in every one of their previous matches and then gone on to win. However would the Dutch be able to keep the USA at bay for a full 90 minutes?

The first half did provide a physical first half that had ramifications for the rest of the game including a head-to-head collision between Kelley O’Hara and Lieke Martens. O’Hara was subbed out right after halftime with concussion symptoms and Martens was subbed out of the game in the 70th minute. Martens did have a toe injury entering the game but the collision had to be a factor as well.

The second half started with the USA in the attack for the majority of the time with the Dutch finding counter attacks here and there. It felt like a goal was going to be scored before the referee would signal the game was over at 90 minutes. Either the USA would finally be able to finish a shot from one of their buildups or the Dutch would get a goal on a breakaway.

The pressure from the USA was at least forcing the Netherlands to play defense too close to goal and create multiple chances inside the box. The Dutch’s desire to just clear the ball out got to be too much when a ball in intended for USA forward, Alex Morgan, seemed like a potential goal scoring opportunity. Stefanie van der Gragt of the Netherlands stuck her foot out to try and knock the ball away, but she swung her leg too high and hit the shoulder of Morgan knocking her to the ground. Initially the referee signaled a corner kick since Morgan is known for not being the most physical player and falling to the ground quite often. But she was informed to re-look at the play and go to VAR. Would it really be a final game without VAR interference?

The referee looked at the play and deemed it warranted a yellow card and more consequentially a penalty kick. Megan Rapinoe stepped up to take the penalty kick. She shot a ball into the right side of the net, not hit extremely well, but van Veenendaal guessed the wrong way and the USA were up 1-0. The goal would be the sixth of the tournament for Rapinoe, and with her three assists she was awarded the Gold Boot for most goals at the WWC.

The Netherlands lost a little bit in their play after the goal happened even with plenty of time left in the game. Once the USA can tell a team is doubting themselves they find a way to strike. The Dutch were giving the USA way too much space and Rose Lavelle took advantage of it weaving in and out of traffic from the half way line into the offensive box. She played the ball to her own left foot and hit a ball into the corner of the goal. Putting the USA up 2-0.

Instead of bunkering into defense early like they had against France and England the USA kept pressure up not giving the Dutch too many chances. The Netherlands were resilient in their play and other than the minutes between the two goals they did not looked overly matched or inferior to the United States.

Unfortunately, the Dutch were never able to get a goal of their own losing the game 2-0. An obvious disappointing finish since they were not the team to lift the trophy, but what they accomplished should not be overlooked or diminished from this game. They are the defending European Champions, they made the WWC Final for the first time, they have qualified for the Olympics for the first time in their history and their second place finish is tied for the best the Dutch men’s side has ever finished even with more funding and support for a longer period of time.

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When asked about the impact from getting second place at the WWC for women’s soccer in the Netherlands their head coach, Sarina Wiegman, said, “I hope this shows everyone in the Netherlands what the potential women’s football has and that we can improve our competition… Hopefully this achievement helps in developing the competition and also the youth development for younger girls.” To think that this already impressive World Cup run by the Netherlands could have been even better with more support from their federation is hard to even fathom what the result would be, but perhaps it could have resulted in the Dutch winning the trophy over the USA.

The USA was the best team at the Women’s World Cup and deserved the trophy. They won back-to-back World Cup titles and their fourth title overall. There have only been eight Women’s World Cup tournaments and the USA have half of the championships showing their domination in women’s soccer. The team was criticized for the lackluster games entering the tournament, poor defense and their arrogance on the field with their celebrations. But at the end of the tournament they proved that none of that mattered and the USA are still the best team in the world.

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The US team has stated that this World Cup has been different from the last and even more challenging. Head coach, Jill Ellis added to that after the game saying,

“The level overall is the women’s game is growing exponentially. This was incredibly difficult. The teams we had to come through were some of the best in the world. In terms of the path and the level, this was pretty challenging.
 
“I knew after 2016 we had to deconstruct and reconstruct the team. That was hard. But to get to this point and see the validation in all our work, it speaks for itself. People out there know about 1/10th of what we do. Congratulations to the Netherlands. They’re a world class team and they gave us a heck of a game tonight.”

The USA had to step up their level of play because the rest of the World has stepped up their play as well. With the quality in women’s soccer rising hopefully federations and countries can see what the women’s game can do at the next World Cup and even the 2020 Olympics.

Women’s World Cup Awards

Gold Ball: (best player): Megan Rapinoe USA

SIlver Ball: Lucy Bronze ENG

Bronze Ball: Rose Lavelle USA

Golden Boot (most goals): Megan Rapinoe USA

Silver Boot: Alex Morgan USA

Bronze Boot: Ellen White ENG

Golden Glove (best goalkeeper): Sari  van Veenendaal NED

Young Player Award: Giulia Gwinn GER

Fair Play Award (team with least amount of fouls): France

Photo Courtesy of Ailura

Netherlands Win 1-0 to Advance to First Ever Women’s World Cup Final

Many people predicted the United States and England in the first semifinal but not many saw Sweden and the Netherlands making up the other. The Netherlands had been deemed a dark-horse and Sweden had to knockoff two top five teams to get here. Regardless of predictions both of these teams proved they are two of the best in the world and deserve to make it this far.

While the first semifinal had a blistering start with three goals in the first 32 minutes, today’s game would be much slower. But before the game started there were changes in the lineup on both sides. For Holland, star forward, Shanice van de Sanden, who has had a lackluster World Cup started the game on the bench for the first time. Lineth Beerensteyn replaced her on the front line.

Sweden had to make a change to their usual starting 11 since Fridolina Rolfö had to sit out for having two yellows in consecutive games. A last minute change was Nathalie Bjorn having to miss the game due to an illness.

None of the changes for either team added much in terms of offense. There were limited opportunities on both sides. Many chances in the first half were redirected or blocked by bodies in front of goal.

Not scoring a goal in the first half is nothing new to the Dutch. Up until this game six of their eight goals had taken place in the second half. When the second half started the Netherlands were without one of their other star forwards, Lieke Martens. She had been dealing with a toe injury for most of the tournament and admitted to playing with constant pain. Martens had not missed a minute yet because of the injury, but now she had to go to the bench due to the pain.

The story of the second half was finger tips and goalposts. Both teams had their best chances of the game after halftime and were inches away from scoring goals.

The first was for Sweden in the 56th minute. Sweden had a corner kick played well into the box, but Sari van Veenendaal, Holland’s golakeeper, punched the ball away. The ball bounced around in the box and finally went out to Nilla Fischer. She rocketed the ball so van Veenendaal had to dive to her right, but all she could get on the ball were tips of her fingers. Her touch was just enough to redirect the ball into the side post. The ball was eventually cleared out.

Seven minutes later the Netherlands would have their own chance from a corner kick. The ball was sent in to Vivianne Miedema all alone at the back of the box. She headed the ball to the far side but Hedvig Lindahl, Sweden’s goalkeeper, had just enough reach to tip the ball up into the crossbar. The play was then ruled offside after another shot on goal.

A few other chances came for both teams but no goals came to fruition. So the game headed to extra time, the first time in Women’s World Cup history for a semifinal to go to extra time.

No one could score in the first 90 minutes, but it would take just nine minutes into stoppage time for the 0-0 tie to be broken. Many figured the goal would come from a set piece since the Netherlands had scored six of their goals in the tournament from set pieces and on the other side Sweden ended the game with 12 corner kicks. And surely the goal would come from a star from one of the teams. Not a set piece and not a goal from a star.

Instead the goal came from the run of play and a beautiful buildup from the Netherlands. Daniëlle van de Donk had the ball just past the halfway line. She played the ball to Miedema who redirected the ball to on-running Jackie Groenen at the top of the box. Groenen sent a one touch ball to the left corner of the goal out of reach of the fingertips on Lindahl. The shot was the first one all tournament from Groenen.

The Dutch would hold off Sweden the rest of the match and win the game 1-0. In just their second appearance at a Women’s World Cup the Netherlands are in the finals for the first time.

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The United States are the obvious favorites to win the finals since they are the defending champions and are currently the number one ranked team in the world. Holland also has the added of challenge with one less day of rest and having played 30 more minutes than the USA. When the Netherlands coach, name, was asked about facing the United States she said, “Obviously it’s amazing to be playing in the finals. It’s going to be so difficult but it’s one match. Anything can happen and it’s going to be a really complicated match and we’re prepared for that.” The Netherlands do not have to play the USA in a series or beat them multiple times, they just need one game where they play their best and possibly catch the USA on an off night.

The third place game between England and Sweden will take place on July 6 at 11 am ET on FOX. The finals game between the United States and the Netherlands will be held on July 7 at 11 am ET on FOX.

Phot Courtesy of Blondinrikard

Four Unique Teams Prepare for a Shot at World Cup Glory

If there is one thing that is apparent about the four teams remaining in the Women’s World Cup it is how different they all are. Each have arrived in France poised for World Cup glory, but each have achieved success through such different avenues.

The Lionesses of England have motored their way into the semifinals by way of a defense that refuses to concede. The back-line led by thirty-one-year-old Stephanie Houghton has conceded only one goal since the start of the competition. In addition, Lucy Bronze at right-back is arguably one of the best in the World.

The Netherlands have earned their spot in the semifinals through an attacking line that is hard to keep off the score sheet. The attack of the Orange is led by 2017 FIFA Player of the Year Lieke Martens and complimented by fellow teammates Vivianne Miedema and Shanice Van de Sanden.

The United States are no strangers to the pressure as they have willed themselves to yet another semifinal. The United States have made it to their second consecutive semifinal by putting together complete performances in each game both defensively and offensively. As 2015 champions the US know what it takes to lift the cup and have used their experience wisely throughout the competition to find themselves two wins away from a repeat. The US is lead by prolific goal scorer Megan Rapinoe who continues to deliver for the Stars and Stripes in the big moment.

Last, but not least Sweden has quietly crept into the final four by showing composure and resiliency in the face of trouble. After a 2-0 loss at the hands of the US in the final group game they responded calmly by dispatching the Canadians 1-0. The Swedes again remained calm after going down one to Germany and responded with two unanswered to find themselves in the semifinals. The Swedes are led by a stout defense and tactical versatility as they hope to win their first ever World Cup.

Predictions

England v. United States

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You’re not going to want to miss this match. Circle it on your calendar, set reminders on your phone, or stream it in the office. This matchup which appears as the more exciting of the two has all the ingredients for an unforgettable ninety minutes. The last time these two faced off was earlier this year in the SheBelieves Cup where they played to an exciting 2-2 draw. It will be a battle of the stingy defense of England versus the offensive firepower of the US. With the likes of Stephanie Houghton and Lucy Bronze in the back it will be difficult for the United States to break through. Even more so the United States has seemed a bit stale on attack at times. If the England defense can keep the Red, White, and Blue off the score sheet I think the match will go the way of the Lionesses. While England are a defensively strong team, they are no slouch on offense either. With the likes of Fran Kirby, Nikita Paris, and the impressive Ellen White the US will have their hands full. The US bolsters a high amount of talent that could also very well cause problems for the English with such a variety of players that can attack and score. This game is very evenly matched and that is what makes it such an exciting competition. The United States looking to make it two World Cup titles in a row while the young English side looking to one-up last competition’s performance by booking a spot in the final. Whoever scores the first goal in this one might very well be the one to find themselves in Lyon for the finale. I think that the hunger and defensive organization of the Lionesses proves to be the difference, I’ll take England to advance to the final in a 1-0 win.

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Netherlands v. Sweden

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This matchup is definitely an interesting one as well and one that you won’t want to miss. This matchup pits the young striker heavy Dutch side against an experienced more well-rounded Swedish team. It will be interesting to see how the Swedish side which also possess a very strong defense led by Nilla Fischer matches up against a pacey Dutch team with various attacking options. Fishcer and the Swedes will have their hands full with the likes of Lieke Martens, Shanice Van de Sanden and Vivianne Miedema. The Swedish side which is well known for its tactical malleability will likely have a well devised game plan to slow the dangerous Dutch attack. The question is will it be enough to slow down such a driven group of women like the Netherlands? The young Netherlands side are looking to continue their run after winning the European Championship in 2017. While the Swedish team is looking to win the World Cup for the first time. The Swedes must focus on their game plan and staying disciplined, even if the Dutch strike first the Swedes must continue to exhibit the kind of composure that saw them past Germany. I believe that if the Swedes can hold the Orange attack to a goal or less they have the offensive power to see off the Dutch and send their exuberant fans packing. However, I am going to choose the Dutch to win this one in stunning fashion. The fans, the hunger, and the sheer talent will all contribute to the success of the Dutch and I expect to see them in the finale. I’ll take the Orange over Sweden 2-0.

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The World Cup’s next fixtures are England v. United States July 2nd, 3pm ET on FOX, and Netherlands v. Sweden July 3rd, 3pm ET on FS1.

Photo Courtesy of Ailura

Holland Advances to Their First Semifinals in Women’s World Cup History

Entering the game the Netherlands were the heavy favorites over Italy. The Italians were deemed the Cinderella team of the tournament and were thought to be outmatched by Holland.

Neither Italy or the Netherlands have played in a quarterfinal at a Women’s World Cup so nerves were expected from both sides. But if the nerves were not enough they also had to try and play through the heat wave that is passing through France. Their game was set to kickoff at 3 pm local time when the heat is in its prime. The Netherlands said they tried to ask FIFA to move the game back to try and play at cooler temperatures. It was to no avail and the teams would have to manage the game with the fatigue the heat causes.

The Netherlands controlled the tempo for the majority of the game. They had multiple scoring chances, but were not clinical in the final third and Italy’s goalkeeper, Laura Giuliani, was not tested. Italy had their chances in the first half even though they came few and far between. But again no real test for the Netherlands goalkeeper, Sari van Veenendaal. No real chances mean no goals and a 0-0 tie at halftime.

The much needed rest and the recovery from the halftime break gave the Netherlands a surge of tempo in the second half. They had many different attacks in the early minutes of the half but once again just could not get anything in the back of the net. The Netherlands were even given free kick opportunities deep in their offensive half, but no goals to count for.

The constant pressure for the Netherlands would pay off as the game went on and so would their free kicks. The Netherlands were awarded a free kick on the left side of their attacking half. Free kick specialist, Sherida Spitse, stepped up to take the kick and played a beautifully weighted ball to Vivianne Miedema who effortlessly headed the ball into the goal.

The 1-0 lead ignited the Netherlands even more and just ten minutes after their first goal they added another in similar fashion.

Spitse once again stepped up to take a free kick in the offensive half, this time on the right side. She sent a driven ball into the box and Stefanie van der Gragt shot up out of the crowd of players and headed the ball above the outstretched goalkeeper.

Only ten minutes left to play and down 2-0 Italy could feel their historic run coming to an end. They would play the remaining minutes with the same pride and passion they have the entire tournament, but when the final whistle blew the Italians were eliminated. Hopefully this is not the last we see of the Italians and we do not have to wait another 20 years to see them at the Women’s World Cup.

The Dutch have used this World Cup to make a statement that they may be newer to the spotlight, but they are a team that will remain at the top. Earlier this week Lieke Martins, forward for the Netherlands, told FIFa that what their goal as a team was and it was that ‘We want to make history’ and they did just that. They will have to wait until the game between Sweden and Germany which starts at 12:30 pm ET on FS1. After the match Miedema said that she does not care who their next opponent is saying, “We’ll see tonight if it’s going to be Sweden or Germany, but I don’t care they’re both really good and we know that we can beat them.”

Photo Courtesy of U.S. Department of State

Quarterfinals Are Much More Than USA vs France

The game everyone is talking about for the World Cup is France vs the United States. People cannot believe the number one ranked team and the number four ranked team would be playing each other in a quarterfinal matchup. This game feels like it deserves to be a final, but the structure of the World Cup does their knockout rounds based on group finishes not world rankings.

The winner of the France vs. the United States may very well go onto win the World Cup, but there are way too many games left and quite frankly quality teams in the other quarterfinalists. There are plenty of story lines and angles the other six teams have created and to focus the majority of coverage on just France and the United States would do them a disservice.

We’re going to take a closer look at the other three quarterfinal games and hopefully you will be just as excited to watch them as you are France vs the United States.

England vs Norway

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The first game of the quarterfinals will take place between England and Norway. England, ranked third in the world and last World Cups’ third place finisher, was a not a surprise to advance to the final eight teams. Norway ranked just 12th in the world and having to beat the fifth ranked Australia to get the quarterfinals is a bit of a surprise.

England returned 12 players from their 2015 squad, but only seven of their starters from their third place victory returned. They also had to adjust to a new coach in Phil Neville who was named in January of last year amid controversy. But the Lionesses have proven that is all behind them and they are wanting to get one game further and play for a World Cup title.

They cruised through the group stage earning all nine points confirming they were a top team. Their impressive wins over Japan, Scotland and Argentina were almost washed away by a rocky showing against Cameroon in the Round of 16.

England was bailed out multiple times by Cameroon miscues and had goals practically handed to them. Their three goals were scored from an indirect free kick inside the box, a penalty kick and a corner kick. Not being able to score in the run of play questions England’s ability to finish when goals will come few and far between as they face tougher opponents. England also gave Cameroon opportunities to score, but offside and their inability to finish kept them off the scoresheet.

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Norway is going to be more of a test for England. They’re the 1991 World Cup Champions and 2000 Olympic gold medalists but have not had much success since then. People thought they would not be able to make a deep run at this tournament without the help of Ada Hegerberg, the best player in the world who is boycotting the Norway National team. But like England, Norway is choosing to put controversy behind them. They finished second in their group behind France. Their only loss was to France but it was just 2-1 with France getting the go ahead goal from a penalty kick.

Their second place finish meant playing Australia in the round of 16. Australia had under-performed in the group stage, but it was believed they would get going in the knockout round and live up to their sixth world ranking.

But Norway showed grit and pushed Australia as far as they could go. The game went to a penalty shootout with Norway not missing a single kick. Australia was playing a player down after a red card and looked defeated. Norway gained confidence as the match went on and proved they were the superior side.

It’s unknown if England and Norway will go to a penalty shootout of their own, but if so Norway has the upper hand and the continued chip on their shoulder to prove they belong and perhaps hoist the World Cup trophy after a 28 year drought.

Italy vs The Netherlands

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The game of firsts, the first time both teams have played in a quarterfinal in a World Cup and the first time these teams have ever played each other at a World Cup. Italy has been deemed the Cinderella story of the tournament while the Netherlands are seen as a finalist at the World Cup.

Italy is the lowest ranked team left in the tournament at 15. They had not been to a World Cup since 1999, but they were one of the first teams to qualify out of Europe. No matter how a team qualifies the World Cup is its own entity and tends to favor those with experience in the tournament. And then there’s the exception to the rule —Italy.

The Azzurre shockingly won Group C over top teams Australia and Brazil. Perhaps the most impressive thing about them is not that they have won, but how they have won. They play fluid soccer, often called pretty soccer. They play with passion and confidence, proud to represent their country at new heights.

Their first Knockout Round matchup was against China PR, a team who had committed the most fouls in the tournament. The constant stoppage of play from the fouls was thought to be an issue for Italy’s game-plan, but the team was unwavered. They settled into the game and posted their second shutout of the tournament. The Italians have only given up two goals at the World Cup, a statistic proving their defense is a staple for their team.

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On the other-side there is arguably the best offensive power in the world, with the Dutch forwards. The Netherlands have scored eight goals so far and will be looking to stretch the Italian back line. Holland was able to earn first place in Group E earning all nine points, with the most notable victory over Canada.

Even with eight goals the Dutch still seem to have more in them and looks like their offense is not always in sync. They were able to get the early lead against Japan in their first game in the Knockout Round. Japan was able to fight back and tie the game up 1-1 before halftime. The second half was mainly full of possession for Japan leaving the Dutch with limited opportunities to score and questioning whether they would advance. But it does not matter how many chances you get, all that matters is converting them. Japan could not convert them thanks large in part to goalkeeper, Sari Van Veenendaal. Late in the game the Netherlands were awarded a penalty and they seized the chance and are now in the quarterfinals. If the Netherlands are to advance past Italy then their offense will have to live up to its full potential.

Whichever team wins, the result will be emotional and have a a team reach the semifinal for the first time. When the game is done, you’ll undoubtedly want to stay tuned to see the winner’s reaction.

Germany vs Sweden

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The final game of the quarterfinal matchup has two of the more prominent European teams as of late. Both teams ranked inside the top ten will undoubtedly bring an exciting match.

Germany is the second ranked team in the world, but has not been receiving the same recognition as some. They have been quietly making their way through the tournament with a business-like demeanor. Germany won their Group without conceding a single goal. They continued their shutout streak into the Round of 16 when they faced Nigeria. They won in commanding style beating Nigeria 3-0.

All of Germany’s wins have felt commanding which shows they are a powerhouse. But it also means they have not had too much diversity and Spain was their highest ranked opponent at 13. Their biggest obstacle has been the injury to their star player, Dzsenifer Marozsan. Germany said she was out for the group stage and whether she can play in the quarterfinals is unknown. Even with the injury, they have not been tested in games which begs the question how will Germany do when they are tested by an even better opponent?

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That quality opponent might just be in their next game against Sweden. The ninth ranked team in the world and the second place finisher in Group F, Sweden has also quietly made their way through the World Cup. They won their first two games easily and then knowing they were already through to the Knockout Round, they took the chance to rest players in their matchup against the USA. Some critiqued the decision, but it seemed to payoff in their game against Canada.

Canada was assumed the favorite with their higher ranking. The game was evenly played and would be 0-0 for the majority of the game. But Sweden waited it out patiently and was able to score a goal. Canada looked to tie the game back up with a second half penalty but Hedvig Lindahl, the Sweden goalkeeper, made the save of the tournament denying Canada a goal.

Sweden and Germany have quietly made the quarterfinals, but their game might just be the best matchup showing a back and forth game. Expect this game to be anything but quiet.

The matchups are set and they start tomorrow to see who will advance to the semifinals.

  • Norway vs England: June 27th at 3:00 pm ET on FOX
  • France vs the United States: June 28th at 3:00 pm ET on FOX
  • Italy vs the Netherlands: June 29th at 9:00 am ET on FS1
  • Germany vs Sweden: June 29th at 12:30 pm ET on FS1
Photo Courtesy of ThreeCharlie

The Quarterfinals Are Set With Historic New Comers

Before this World Cup neither the Netherlands nor Italy had advanced past the first game in the knockout round. That was until today when both teams were able to win their games and advance to the quarterfinals for the first time in their history.

Italy had not been to a Women’s World Cup since 1999. That 20 year drought would make it seem that Italy was just happy to be back and a team not thought of as a top team in the world. But their first place finish in Group C over favorites Australia and Brazil proved they are a team that opponents need to be concerned about.

Even with a successful group play campaign they still had to defeat a talented China team. China who is the most penalized team with fouls was going to disrupt the play of a very fluid Italian team. Early on in the game it seemed like China was able to get the best of Italy and control the pace. But a little bit of patience and weathering the storm benefited Italy.

A tough defense was hard for the Italians to break through but a persistent Valentina Giacinti for Italy was able to get the offense going. She created a turnover in China’s defensive half and then crossed the ball in for her teammates to score. The ball kept getting knocked around and eventually rolled back to Giacinti in the middle of the box. She went fearlessly at the ball and launched it into the net.

China was able to create a few chances of their own throughout the game, but Italy’s high level defense proved to be too much. Italy has only conceded two goals all tournament and both have been off penalty kicks.

Italy was able to double their lead and give themselves some breathing room. In the 49th minute of play Italy caused China to turn the ball over again in their defensive half. This time Italy passed the ball just one time to a wide open Aurora Galli at the top of the box. She shot the ball into the lower left corner of the goal giving Italy the 2-0 lead.

The lead would be enough to propel Italy into the quarterfinals and celebrate a feat they have never conquered before. A few of the players were understandably emotional after the game. And some of that can be attributed to not only their historic run on the field, but the history they are making with equality in Italy.

When asked about the impact the team is having on soccer and in Italy Milena Bertolini, the head coach, mentioned the players playing for a purpose and wanting to change Italian culture. She said, “I really believe that this Italian women’s side has allowed the women’s game to break new ground back home. We can see that from the viewing figures, from what we’re seeing in the press, and from all the messages of those back home who are writing to us… This team with what they’re producing on the pitch they are able to break down some of those prejudices and barriers and they are enacting change and that is the mission that the girls feel they have in France.”

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The Netherlands were able to create some history of their own by beating Japan 2-1. Japan had been in the World Cup final for the past two tournaments and actually beat the Netherlands in 2015. They are the second youngest team at the World Cup this year and their inexperience was not enough to beat a tough Dutch side.

The Netherlands were able to get on the scoresheet first with their goal in the 17th minute. They had lined up for a corner kick with Sherida Spitse taking it on the left side. She played a ball right to the corner of the 6-yard box where Lieke Martens was positioned perfectly. Martens had a beautiful finish hitting the ball with her back heel and nutmegging a Japanese defender scoring an impressive goal.

Before the first half was over Japan was able to to convert a goal of their own. Known for their buildup and great tactical passes Japan was able to score from short quick passes. Mana Iwabuchi sent a through ball to Yui Hasegawa who then chipped the ball into the net tying the game up.

Japan appeared to dominate play in the second half and possessed the ball the majority of the time. But possession does not always dictate who wins and Japan not being able to finish in the final third was their downfall.

The game was nearing its end still tied at 1-1 and fans were thinking this game was going to extra time, it felt like the game deserved to go to extra time. However, while Saki Kumagai was trying to block a shot in Japan’s defensive box her arm got in the way and a penalty was issued for the Netherlands in the 89th minute. Lieke Martens stepped to take the penalty and earn herself a brace for the game. She kicked the ball into the right corner of the goal while the Japanese goalie dove the other way. The goal would put the game out of reach for Japan and allow the Netherlands to advance.

Even though the Netherlands have made the quarterfinals for the first time in their history the team is still a favorite to make the finals. When asked about the historic run Martens commented, “The history that we have made, we are really proud of that, but we’re not done yet here. We’re really looking forward to the next game and we hope we can surprise more.”

The Netherlands next game will be against Italy and whoever wins that game will make more history with their first trip to the semifinals. With both of these teams qualifying seven of the eight teams in the quarterfinals are from Europe with the lone non-European team being the United States.

Italy and the Netherlands will play Saturday at 9:00 am ET on FS1.