The United States nearly set a major Women's World Cup record for the longest shutout streak in history for a single World Cup, but they came up just a few seconds short. Yuki Ogimi's goal for Japan in the 28th minute means that Germany retain the record. Germany went 540 minutes in 2007 without conceding, and the U.S. just barely missed out on that record.
USA mere seconds from Women’s World Cup shutout record
The USWNT came six seconds from Germany’s eight year old record for the longest shutout streak in the Women’s World Cup.
Eric Bolte-USA TODAY Sports
The USWNT gave up a goal in the 27th minute against Australia in their opening match, but didn't concede between then and the first half of the World Cup final. The Germans didn't concede a single goal en route to their second straight title, but this World Cup includes an extra knockout round, which gave the US the chance to beat that record.
The U.S. defense has been incredible all tournament long, with centerbacks Becky Sauerbrunn and Julie Johnston forming a brick wall in front of Hope Solo’s goal. Johnston is up for the Golden Ball for her efforts, and frankly, Sauerbrunn should be up for the top player award as well. Both Ali Krieger and Meghan Klingenberg have been fantastic as well, locking down the flanks and keeping some elite attackers quiet ever since that first goal.
