ZCZC
BSP-02
FBL-WOMEN-USA-JPN-BRA-AUS
Hat-trick for captain Morgan as US sink Japan
LOS ANGELES, July 27, 2018 (BSS/AFP) – Alex Morgan scored a hat-trick as
the United States defeated Japan 4-2 in the opening round of the Tournament
of Nations quadrangular competition at Children’s Mercy Park in Kansas City
on Thursday.
US captain Morgan struck in the 18th, 26th and 56th minutes as the American
women overpowered Japan in a repeat of the 2015 World Cup final, which was
won 5-2 by the US in Vancouver.
Fullback Megan Rapinoe scored the other goal for the hosts, who are using
the tournament as preparation for CONCACAF qualifiers for next year’s Women’s
World Cup in France.
Morgan’s hat-trick took her international tally to 89 in 143 games, and
maintained an incredible scoring streak. The 29-year-old striker has now
scored 16 goals in her last 16 games.
Japan’s goals came in each half, with Mina Tanaka netting the first in the
20th minute before Moeno Sakaguchi scored a late consolation for the
visitors.
In the day’s other game, Australia defeated Brazil 3-1 to open their
challenge with a morale-boosting victory.
The Matildas took the lead after only nine minutes following an own goal by
Brazil rightback Poliana.
Tameka Butt doubled the Australian tally shortly before half-time before
Samantha Kerr added a third in the 50th minute.
Debinha finally got on the scoresheet for Brazil with a consolation goal in
the 79th minute.
BSS/AFP/MRI/0849 hrs