Carli Lloyd scored twice and missed a penalty as the United States cruised into the last 16 of the Women's World Cup with a 3-0 win over Chile in Paris.
On target as a substitute in the 13-0 humiliation of Thailand, co-captain Lloyd made the most of her elevation to the starting XI as she netted either side of Julie Ertz's header in the first half.
The celebrations — muted in comparison to the exuberant scenes that attracted criticism on Tuesday — were kept in check from there, though, with Lloyd unable to convert a controversially awarded penalty towards the end.
READ | USA's Carli Lloyd sets tournament scoring record
Jill Ellis' side now only need a draw against Sweden in Le Havre on Thursday to top Group F on goal difference, while Chile must beat Thailand to boost their hopes of advancing as one of four third-placed teams.
Lloyd hit the post with a good early opportunity but did not have to wait long for the opener, the 36-year-old lashing home following a poor defensive header in the 11th minute.
Ertz headed in a Tierna Davidson corner to extend the margin before an unmarked Lloyd did likewise in the 35th minute, becoming the oldest player to score multiple goals in a single Women's World Cup match.
Chile goalkeeper Christiane Endler made a series of superb saves to keep the scoreline under control in the early stages of the second half, twice thwarting Christen Press.
READ | Sembrant's early opener helps Swedes ease into last 16
The woodwork then denied both substitute Jessica McDonald and record-breaker Lloyd, who should have completed her hat-trick after a VAR review deemed her to have been fouled in the box by Yessenia Huenteo.
Lloyd stepped up but fired to the left of the upright, as Chile escaped without further damage.
Comments
SHARE