The United States has taken third place in the Women's World Cup soccer tournament with a 3-1 victory over Canada.
A bright blue sky, strong breeze and more than 25,000 fans greeted the United States and Canada Saturday in Carson, California. Their battle for third place started with a fast pace, and the U.S. women struck first in the 22nd minute when veteran Kristine Lilly fired in a shot from about 10 meters.
U.S. goalkeeper Brianna Scurry was caught out of position in the 38th minute, and Canadian Christine Sinclair took advantage and scored.
The second half belonged to the U.S. women. Shannon Boxx took a 51st minute corner kick from Mia Hamm and headed it into the net. Tiffany Milbrett came off the bench and scored from in front of the goal in the 80th minute. U.S. coach April Heinrichs says her team was disappointed about failing to reach the final, and that increased their desire to win this game.
"There was a determination in our game. Our persistence paid off today," she said. "Today we had possession and it got a little more stretched. We still went forward when it was 3-1 and we were still trying to get that other one [goal] as a matter of pride. And as a matter of separation, separating us from the rest of the world."
Germany and Sweden play for the championship later Sunday.
