Megan Rapinoe Notches a Brace to Earn a Win for the U.S. in the Women's World Cup.

Megan Rapinoe Photo: U.S. Soccer

The United States Women’s National Team opened their campaign in the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup on Monday evening against Australia. Megan Rapinoe struck first with a goal off a deflected shot in the 12th minute. Australia’s Lisa de Vanna answered back with the tying goal in the 27th minute. The match was tied at the half. In the second half Christen Press scored in the 61th minute regaining the lead for the U.S. Megan Rapinoe sealed the game with her second goal of the match making the final score 3-1 in the 78th minute.

This was Press’s first ever Women’s World Cup goal. Megan Rapinoe, who recently celebrated her 100th cap for the U.S., was the first U. S. Women’s National Team player to earn 2 goals during a game in the Women’s World Cup since 2007. This earned her the honor of being the Player of the Match. The U.S. offence wasn’t the only bright side to this game. Hope Solo’s heart stopping saves prevented Australia from taking the lead.

The United States are currently in first place after their first round of group play in Group D. Earlier in the day Nigeria and Sweden played to a 3-3 draw earning second and third place respectively. The U.S. plays again on Friday, June 12, at 5pm PT against Sweden.

Group D Standings: