(Getty)
Alex Morgan was waiting for the moment.
The long-time USWNT standout found the back of the net in the 53rd minute of play, giving the Untied States a 1-0 lead over Colombia in the round of 16 play.
Here’s what Morgan’s shot looked like:
Morgan, who has worked to get back to full-strength during this summer’s World Cup, made her presence known just minutes before her game-altering goal. The U.S. forward was streaking down the field, breaking past Colombia’s defensive line when she collided with goalkeeper Catalina Perez and drawing a red card.
Perez was actually Colombia’s back up goalie, starting in net after Sandra Sepulveda was sidelined after receiving two yellow cards during pool play. Check out the play that sent Perez to the locker room:
Abby Wambach missed the net wide on the penalty kick, drawing the ire of social media, particularly when facing a cold goalie.
Abby Wambach misses penalty for #USA, just 2nd missed PK by U.S. at WWC (Mia Hamm vs Nigeria in 2003). U.S. now 7-for-9 on PK at WWC.
It didn’t make much difference though as Morgan followed up just a few minutes later with her own goal, breaking the metaphorical round of 16 ice for the United States.
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WATCH: Alex Morgan Scores Goal for USWNT Against Colombia