Holland’s Jackie Groenen believes the United States can be beaten after firing her country into the World Cup final.
The Manchester United player scored the only goal of the 1-0 win against Sweden in the ninth minute of extra time following a tense affair.
The United States, who saw off Phil Neville’s England following a 2-1 victory, are set to start as the favourites to win the tournament showpiece on Sunday.
🔶 F I N A L E ! 🔶#OnzeJacht #NEDSWE pic.twitter.com/Qg5gf741nl
— OranjeLeeuwinnen (@oranjevrouwen) July 3, 2019
“Of course we watched America’s game against England,” said Groenen. “They are a really strong team, and that is obvious.
“But it is one game and there are possibilities. I hope we will be able to play our own game, and who knows what will happen?
“It is amazing to be able to be in the final. I am so proud. It is so nice to be part of a team with so much confidence that we give to each other.
“The final will be difficult, but it really will be incredible to win.”
Holland’s semi-final encounter ended on a sour note after Sweden’s former Manchester City midfielder Kosovare Asllani was carried off on a stretcher following an awkward landing.
Scoring the winning goal to take your team to the #FIFAWWC Final 🤩
What a night for @Jackie_10_! 🧡
Here’s her #PlayeroftheMatch presented by @Visa interview following #NEDSWE… pic.twitter.com/VdS7FVJlKZ
— FIFA Women’s World Cup (@FIFAWWC) July 3, 2019
There was no immediate update on her condition.
“You are not angry, sad, or disappointed, but of course I am not happy,” said Sweden manager Peter Gerhardsson.
“I feel empty right now, whether that has to do with the match or Kosovare, I am not sure, but that is how I feel.”
Looking ahead to the play-off against England on Saturday, he added: “Ending up third feels a lot better than fourth so we will do everything in our power to achieve that and win the bronze medal.”
