Canada tops Great Britain to reach women's soccer semis

Published November 20, 2014

Jonelle Filigno and Christine Sinclair scored as Canada defeated Great Britain, 2-0, on Friday to make the semifinals of the women's Olympic soccer tournament for the first time.

Filigno scored in the 12th minute and Sinclair scored her 140th career goal in the 26th as Canada became the first team to score against Great Britain in the Olympics.

Canada will battle its nemesis, the United States, in the semifinals on Monday at Old Trafford in Manchester, England. The United States downed New Zealand, 2-0, in its quarterfinal Friday.

The Canadians advanced to the quarterfinals four years ago in their first time in the Olympics, but lost to the United States in extra time, 2-1.

Canada was impressive early at City of Coventry Stadium against Great Britain, and Filigno and Sinclair delivered the goals that made the difference.

Filigno opened the scoring on a brilliant half-volley, as she connected with a corner kick from Sophie Schmidt and drove a shot into the top-right corner.

Sinclair added her goal before the half-hour mark, as she directed a free kick over the wall and into the upper-right corner for her third goal of the event. Sinclair is third all-time in scoring in women's history.

Great Britain finished first in Group E with wins over New Zealand, Cameroon, and Brazil, but rarely threatened to overturn the early deficit.

Canada, which finished third in Group F behind Sweden and Japan, will turn its attention to the United States.

The Canadians are winless in their last 26 matches against the Americans.

URL

https://www.foxnews.com/sports/canada-tops-great-britain-to-reach-womens-soccer-semis