The 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup concluded over the weekend with the Americans taking home the coveted prize. The highly successful tournament had a lot of fantastic moments and memories. Here is a look back at five great moments from the tournament.
1. Carli Lloyd propels United States to Women’s World Cup glory
American midfielder Carli Lloyd’s hat trick in the World Cup final was something for the history books. Not only did the 32-year-old score three goals in the most important game of her life, she also did it in the span of 16 minutes. To add to her impressive performance, she also scored her third goal from the middle of the pitch.
The Americans went on to capture their third Women’s World Cup with a 5-2 thrashing of Japan. Lloyd was awarded the Golden Ball as the best player of the tournament and the Silver Boot for her six goals and one assist.
2. England perseveres after heartbreaking semifinal loss
England defender Laura Bassett’s own goal in stoppage time of England’s semifinal match against Japan was truly distressing to watch. In the final seconds of what was an epic clash between two strong sides, Bassett tried to clear a pass out of harm’s way, but the ball hit the crossbar of her own net and dropped in over the line. The score was 1-1 at the time and with the late goal, England had no chance of staging a comeback as Japan solidified their appearance in the World Cup final with a 2-1 win.
But through the despair came perseverance for England. Just days after the tragic loss, England and Bassett overcame a very strong German side to win third place with a 1-0 victory in extra time. England showed great resiliency in the tournament and the team’s efforts were highly commended.
“We made the best out of a bad situation,” Bassett told FATV after the match.
3. Christine Sinclair puts Canada on her back against China
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The host nation kicked off the tournament against China in group stage action and Canadian captain Christine Sinclair scored a penalty kick in the 92nd minute to give Canada an exciting 1-0 opening match win. Her tally sent the country into an absolute frenzy. This exhilarating moment was certainly one of the highlights of the tournament.
Even though the Canadians were ousted from the tournament in the quarter-finals, the hosts should be proud of their efforts both on and off the pitch.
4. Cameroon makes a statement in Women’s World Cup debut
Newcomers to the FIFA Women’s World Cup, Cameroon made their presence known early, winning their opening match against fellow newcomers Ecuador.
Celebrating her 23rd birthday, midfielder Gaëlle Enganamouit had a hat trick in the game as Cameroon dominated with an impressive 6-0 win. Cameroon made it to the Round of 16 before losing 1-0 to China.
5. Creativity from Japan
Although Japan suffered defeat in the World Cup final, the Japanese team didn’t shy away from the highlight reel throughout the tournament. The defending champs scored a brilliant goal against the Netherlands in Round of 16 action. Midfielder Mizuho Sakaguchi finished off the tantalizing offensive play to help move Japan into the quarter-finals. Her goal was definitely a fan favourite.
