US Women defeat Canada in extra time

After grabbing an early lead, the US Women needed extra time and a Natasha Kai header to advance to the Beijing Olympics semifinal over Canada.   Substitute Natasha Kai headed in an extra time goal, giving the defending champion United States a spot in the Olympic women's soccer semifinal with a 2-1 victory over Canada.

After the two goals weather moved in and the game was suspended for one hour and 40 minutes during the first half because of lightning.  Undeterred, the Americans went on to dominate the second half, with Shannon Boxx, playing her 100th senior international, heading narrowly wide after 65 minutes and Hucles forcing a fine save from substitute goalkeeper Karina Le Blanc six minutes later.

Canada remained dangerous on the break, however, and Sinclair might have won it for them with 12 minutes remaining but for a superb save from Solo that kept out the striker's powerful long-range shot. Nevertheless, USA remained the more determined attacking force as the match entered extra time and, with Canada seemingly eyeing penalties, the fatal blow was struck. With 100 minutes showing on the clock and the Canucks retreating further back into their own half, Boxx curled over a tantalising cross that Kai diverted expertly past the helpless Le Blanc.

The US will play the winner of China-Japan in the semifinal round.  Japan was leading 1-0 at halftime in the match.  Brazil defeated Norway 2-1 in another quarterfinal and await the winner of Germany-Sweden.