Sweden Knockout Reigning Champions USA

*Netherlands end Banyana Banyana adventure in Australia 

Reigning champions the USA are out of the Women’s World Cup after being stunned by Sweden 5-4 on penalties on a night of incredible drama in Melbourne.

USA dominated the 120 minutes but were denied by an inspired goalkeeping performance from Zecira Musovic as the match finished goalless.

The drama only ratcheted up further in the shootout. Three USA players missed, including their footballing icon Megan Rapinoe on her last appearance on the world stage, before Sweden won in remarkable circumstances.

USA keeper Alyssa Naeher appeared to have saved Lina Hurtig’s effort at the second attempt, having pushed the initial effort up before clawing it out.

But after checking with the video assistant referee (VAR), referee Stephanie Frappart awarded the goal and sparked wild Sweden celebrations.

USA manager Vlatko Andonovski was not convinced the ball had crossed the line, despite technology confirming the goal.

“It’s a tough moment,” he said. “It’s a moment where it’s hard to go through, where you hope it didn’t cross the line. I see pictures and I still can’t see it now, but proves how cruel this game can be.

Elsewhere, Netherlands manager, Andries Jonker, said his team have come to the Women’s World Cup “with the conviction that we can beat everybody” after securing a quarter-final spot with a 2-0 defeat of South Africa..

The Netherlands were forced to endure several anxious moments before defeating South Africa and book a place in the last eight.

They will have to face Spain without experienced midfielder Danielle van de Donk, who picked up a second yellow card of the tournament and is suspended.

Former Arsenal player Van de Donk, a Champions League winner with current club Lyon, broke down in tears at full-time knowing she will miss the quarter-final after starting all 15 World Cup games in Netherlands’ history.