Women's World Cup Provides Excitement as USA Defeats Brazil in Penatly Kicks

The United States Women's Soccer Team captivated the nation's attention this weekend. Playing a tight game against Brazil the team showed determination and skills that brought about national news coverage they haven't seen since Brandi Chastain in 1999 when they won the World Cup.

With the game in extra time and the American side down 2-1 it looked like a sure loss, but in the 122nd minute Abby Wambach tied the game with a jumping header. Hope Solo, the American Goalie, then turned in a brilliant performance during the penalty kicks to help the team advance.

The game was exciting from beginning to end as the first goal was an own goal by Brazilian player Daiane. With the Americans up 1-0 it was a furious rush to equalize the game that took a crazy turn in the 65th minute. Brazilian star Marta made a run in the box and was dragged down by the American defender. The referee awarded a penalty kick and a red card for the foul, leaving the Americans a player down.

Cristiane took the kick and Solo made a perfect read to block the kick and retain the lead. However the referee ordered the kick retaken and gave Solo a yellow card, apparently noting an American encroaching on the kick.

On the re-kick Marta put the ball past Solo and evened the game. The Brazilians went up 2-1 in the 92nd minute on another goal by Marta against protests that the player who fed her the ball was offsides.

In stoppage time it was clear that the Americans were going to battle back and after Wambach's goal took care of the game on penalty kicks 5-3.