Jenni Hermoso punishes USWNT with sublime equalizer (Video)

The USWNT jumped out to an early lead after Megan Rapinoe converted a penalty, but it only took minutes for Spain’s star Jenni Hermoso to find the back of the net.

After passing their final group stage test against Sweden with flying colors, winning 2-0, the USWNT had to take on a familiar opponent in Spain in the Round of 16. Among the tournament upstarts, Spain are a team capable of controlling possession and scoring some great goals, and star striker Jenni Hermoso provided an exquisite finish to equalize against the United States.

Thanks to a trademark Abby Dahlkemper long pass and Tobin Heath’s quick feet, the USWNT earned a penalty in the 6th minute that Megan Rapinoe converted perfectly. However, the United States could only enjoy their lead for a few minutes, as Spain responded almost immediately, tying the game 1-1 in the 9th minute.

And who else would supply the dagger than Jenni Hermoso?

Hermoso entered the 2019 Women’s World Cup as one of the tournament’s most in-form players, and her goal here showcased exactly why she’s one of the best goal-scorers in the tournament. This was a huge mistake from Becky Sauerbrunn out of the back after a risky pass from goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher, and Hermoso pounced.

She still had some work to do with the finish, too. Hermoso curled the ball perfectly into the right corner of the net, leaving Naeher no chance. The movement and accuracy on this strike were deadly, but this type of finish is exactly what Hermoso, who scored a whopping 18 goals in 21 games for Spanish giants Atletico Madrid last season, is capable of.

The USWNT created a dangerous opportunity off of one pass from a center back early to take the lead, but Spain showed that they are game. Mistakes against a team of Spain’s quality will be punished dearly, as Hermoso reminded fans here.