USWNT Fans Question Officiating On Penalty That Allows U.S. To Beat Spain 2-1

Reims, France (CBS Local/CBS New York)- The United States Women’s National Team won 2-1 against Spain in the Round of 16 at the Women’s World Cup in France Monday. A physical, hard-fought match saw the U.S. team advance thanks to a pair of penalty kicks from star forward Megan Rapinoe.

The first penalty was awarded when Tobin Heath was taken down just inside the box in the seventh minute.

 

The second penalty was more controversial, with midfielder Rose Lavelle going down in the box after it appeared that she had been caught by the cleat of a Spanish defender. However, when it was reviewed on VAR, it seemed to some fans that the penalty call was a bit harsh. Nonetheless, the call was upheld after review, and the U.S. took advantage, with Rapinoe burying another penalty try. Following the call, U.S. fans weighed in sympathizing with the Spanish side, calling out the officiating for the second penalty.

Still, there were some who thought the penalty was the correct call. Regardless, the women advance after a nervy win to face the hosts, France, on Friday in the quarterfinals. France handed the U.S. their only loss of the year back in January, 3-1, in Le Havre. Friday’s match will be played in Parc de Princes in Paris, with the winner advancing to the semifinals.