PARIS, August 10, 2024 - Normal service has been restored in Olympic Games women’s football. United States are back on their gold medal and Brazil, yet again, are flying home with silver.

A 1-0 victory in the Parc des Princes was the Americans’ record-extending fifth. A second-half goal from Mallory Swanson vindicated the USSF’s appointment last November of English coach Emma Hayes to refashion a team beaten in the Round of 16 at last year’s Women’s World Cup and who had slipped to fifth in the world ranking.

GREATEST ACHIEVEMENT Hayes, 47, who had led Chelsea to 15 major women’s trophies over 12 years fought back tears in hailing the greatest achievement of her career.

She said: “This time last year I was preparing for a pre-season [with Chelsea]. Never would I have thought during the World Cup that I would be here leading the US women's national team to a gold medal.

“It's been a rough year. This time last year my Dad was dying and I didn't think I had the courage to come and do this and this team have embraced me and welcomed me into their family and allowed to me to lead them. Honestly, it's the greatest moment in my professional career.”
 

GRATITUDE Hayes was spotted on camera at the final whistle kissing a necklace in tribute to her father, who died last September. She added: “It's an American eagle and it's my father's. I felt him with me the whole performance. I just had a moment to myself to remind myself of what I've been through in my life, my career, and to show gratitude to my parents - the people that matter the most.”

DISAPPOINTMENT FOR BRAZIL Delight for the US was another disappointment for Brazil, beaten in the final by the US in 2004 and 2008. They lost despite the return to duty as a second-half substitute of veteran superstar Marta. She had been absent through suspension from their line-up in both quarter-finals and semi-finals.

Brazil threatened in the opening stages, Ludmila had a ‘goal’ disallowed for offside and Gabi Portilho was denied by a superb reflex save from US keeper Alyssa Naeher. Swanson broke the stalemate in the 57th minute, converting an assist from Korbin Albert to mark her 100th international appearance in what proved to be winning style.

The gold medal was assured after Naeher made a superb stoppage-time save from a dividing header by Adriana.

** Germany won the bronze medal after a 1-0 win over Spain.