An Abby Wambach right kick is all the United States needed to knock off Nigeria, 1-0, to clinch the top spot in Group D in the Women’s World Cup.
The United States dominated Nigeria from the opening kick, but it took until the 45th minute for the Americans to finally get on the scoreboard. Wambach capitalized on a perfect cross from Megan Rapinoe to put Team USA up 1-0.
The United States advances to the knockout stage where they will face Either Thailand, France or Spain.
Nigeria’s players who also received three yellow cards, including one to defender Sarah Nnodim. It was her second of the tournament, resulting in a red card and ejection.
In the other game in Group D, Australia tied Sweden, taking second place and advancing to face Brazil.
Sweden ended in third place, but may still have another match, as four of the six third-place teams will move on. The loss to the U.S. eliminated Nigeria.
Australia took the lead after just five minutes as captain Lisa De Vanna sprinted onto a long ball forward and coolly slotted home.
Australia celebrate scoring against Sweden
Australia are into the knock-out stages for the third successive time.
But any hopes they had of overhauling the United States at the top of the group were reduced as Sofia Jakobsson levelled 10 minutes late with a low shot inside goalkeeper Lydia Williams’ near post.
