In search of Olympic glory, Germany wants revenge on the USA

The Olympics always bring us unforgettable moments, and the clash between the USA and Germany in the semifinals of the Paris 2024 women's soccer tournament promises to be one of those. The United States, with an enviable record, have reached the semifinals in seven of the eight editions of the event, winning five of those occasions. The only exception was Rio 2016, when they were surprisingly eliminated in the quarter-finals. In Tokyo 2020, another surprise: a 1-0 defeat to Canada interrupted their quest for six consecutive victories. Now, in Paris, the Americans are determined to return to the top and prove that they are still the dominant force in women's soccer.

Follow MLS Multiplex on X (Twitter).

Germany, meanwhile, have a more modest record, with just one win in four previous Olympic semifinals. However, that victory came in their most recent appearance, at Rio 2016, when they beat Canada 2-0 and went on to win gold. Although they have only lost one of their last seven matches in this tournament, that defeat was a painful 4-1 loss to the United States in the group stage of Paris 2024. Now Germany is seeking revenge, led by a star: Ann-Katrin Berger.

Berger was the heroine of the penalty shoot-out victory over Canada in the quarter-finals. With brilliant saves against Ashley Lawrence and Adriana Leon, as well as scoring the decisive penalty. "I just love the moment," she said, referring to the adrenaline rush of penalty shootouts. This confidence and calm under pressure are rare and invaluable qualities in a goalkeeper.

Kathrin Hendrich, a German defender, praised Berger's influence on and off the pitch. "Ann-Katrin is a very special character. She's very calm, but she also has a lot of humor. She cares about everyone and is always thinking about other people before herself. And, of course, she's a fantastic soccer player." That team spirit is crucial for Germany as they prepare to face the United States once again.

However, Berger recognizes that Germany needs to improve if they are to overcome the Americans. "We need to be better than in the last game, that's for sure," she said, emphasizing the need to take advantage of scoring opportunities. Bayern Munich's Giulia Gwinn echoes this sentiment, highlighting the USA's attacking strength and the need for a solid defense and well-timed offensive chances.

The USA, on the other hand, go into this game with the confidence of a crushing victory in the group stage. With a powerful attack, which scored four goals against Germany, and a solid defense, the American team is focused on advancing to yet another Olympic final. The experience and talent of the American players is undeniable, and they know that they need to maintain consistency in order to continue dominating.

The history and rivalry between these two giants of women's soccer adds a special spice to this semifinal. The USA have a tradition of excellence, while Germany are looking to prove that they can compete and win on the biggest stages. This match promises to be a spectacle of skill, strategy and determination.

The players' physical and mental preparation will be crucial. The USWNT need to stay focused and avoid any complacency. Germany, meanwhile, need to use the energy and confidence from their victory over Canada to motivate an even better performance against the USA.

All in all, this game has the makings of a final, especially given the weight of the two teams. A clash between two playing philosophies and two nations passionate about the sport. Who will emerge victorious? The USA, with their rich history and undeniable talent, or Germany, with their burning desire for revenge and a goalkeeper who loves a moment of glory?

The answer lies in the details, the tactics and the will to win. Whatever the result, one thing is certain: this semifinal will be remembered as one of the great moments in women's Olympic soccer. Keep an eye out, because this match promises to make history.