U.S. women's national team coach Jill Ellis received criticism for waiting so long to make substitutions during a close game against Spain that gave the United States a scare.
Star forward Alex Morgan, who was subbed out halfway through USA's group stage finale against Sweden with injury concerns, didn't look 100 percent as she took several big hits. Veteran Megan Rapinoe looked exhausted as she scored twice on penalty kicks. And, overall, the U.S. missed on big opportunities as it couldn't find the back of the net and needed a change in pace.
REPORT | ESP 1-2 USA
Ellis waited until the 85th minute to replace Morgan with Carli Lloyd as the first sub. Rapinoe came out in the seventh minute of stoppage time, while Lindsey Horan (who has a yellow card) replaced Rose Lavelle.
After the 2-1 win, Ellis explained why she didn't make substitutions earlier. Here is Ellis' full explanation:
The Americans now shift their focus to facing host France in the quarterfinals Friday in Paris.
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