The USA have been crowned World Cup champions, defeating The Netherlands in the final on a 2-0 scoreline.
The Americans have been the favourites right from the outset of the tournament, looking to defend the title they reclaimed in Canada in 2015. Today's final reflected that fact, and they fully deserved their win.
While The Netherlands were stern at the back for the first 60 minutes, they would give away a silly penalty to hand the favourites the lead. That lead would soon be doubled to 2-0, and the result seemed inevitable from that point.
Co-captains Carli Lloyd, Megan Rapinoe and Alex Morgan hoist the World Cup as the USA are crowned world champions.#RTEsoccer pic.twitter.com/prhtkwYloV
— RTÉ Soccer (@RTEsoccer) July 7, 2019
This World Cup has been a major step forward for the women's game, with record viewing figures throughout the world. Much of this has been down to the success of the USA, who have been the major talking point throughout.
It looks like Ireland may now be a part of their story.
The Irish Independent are reporting that Ireland will take on the USA in a friendly in August, which is set to take place in the Rose Bowl in California. It will be the Americans' first game after their World Cup triumph.
Considering this will be their first game back on US soil, and the obsession the nation has developed for the 'USWNT', we should expect a large crowd in the 90,000-capacity venue.
This is a wonderful opportunity for the Irish team, who taken plenty of strides forward of their own in recent years. While they are currently without a manager after the departure of Colin Bell, this should be a fantastic occasion.
The two sides last met in 2016, a game which the USA won 5-0. Ireland will no doubt be hoping for a better result this time around.
