The Stunning U.S. Exit from the World Cup

In the seventh round of a penalty shoot-out, Sweden’s Lina Hurtig lined up against Alyssa Naeher, a spot in the World Cup quarterfinals on the line. For two hours—regulation and extra time—neither team had been able to score. The shoot-out had been nervy so far, Sweden matching the United States miss for miss, goal for goal—from newcomers and seasoned players alike. Kelley O’Hara, a veteran for the U.S. team who had been called on in the waning minute of extra time in order to be eligible for penalties, had just bounced her attempt off the post. Hurtig, a lanky forward with a prow of bright-blond hair, loped toward the ball and sent a low, hard shot. Naeher dived and blocked the ball, which popped high into the air and spun back toward the goal. Naeher scrambled off her back, trying to bat the ball out before it crossed the line. She gestured to signal that the save was made, but it was hard to tell.