Despite a valiant effort which could have ended differently if not for a 92nd-minute shot by Ana Capeta which hit the post, Portugal was eliminated from FIFA Women’s World Cup following a 0-0 draw against USA on Tuesday morning in Auckland, New Zealand.
The national team was able to hold the current world champions to a goalless draw, which was almost a surprising victory which would have granted Portugal passage to the round of 16.
But after three matches (including a 1-0 loss against Netherlands and 2-0 victory against Vietnam), the ‘Navegadoras’ (Navigators) finished in third place of Group E with four points, just one behind USA and three behind Netherlands. Vietnam, with 0 points, finished last.
This was Portugal’s first participation ever in the Women’s World Cup.
Jéssica Silva, one of the team’s stars, has urged fans to continue supporting the team.
“We lacked a little bit of luck. I am very sad about this result, but I’m also very proud of what we did, we clashed against one of the best teams in the world, the two-time world champions. Do not forget about us, continue supporting us because this group is incredible,” Silva said after the match.
