hope solo

One of the goalkeeper's aims is to change America's "pay to play" youth soccer system. She joins a crowded field of contenders for the top post after Sunil Gulati announced he wouldn't run again.

After losing to the Swedes in the Olympic quarterfinals, the longtime Team USA goalkeeper said she thought "we played a bunch of cowards." Solo was widely criticized for her criticism.

There were a number of hero narratives around Tuesday night's takedown, which gives the U.S. a place in the Women's World Cup final in Vancouver on Sunday.

In a battle between a fantastic attack and a fantastic defense, the latter prevailed, as two penalty kicks — one made, one whiffed — and a late insurance goal gave the U.S. the win.

Midfielders Megan Rapinoe and Lauren Holiday each received their second yellow card of the Women's World Cup in Monday night's match, resulting in automatic one-game suspensions.

The Americans had hoped for more against their trash-talking former coach, who now leads the Swedes, but Friday night's tie in Winnipeg still leaves them atop their group.

Midfielder Megan Rapinoe scored twice and goalie Hope Solo made five saves against a tough Australian team that had the game tied at halftime.