Under a beautiful blue Algarve sky, this years final featured regular finalists The USA and the new kids on the block France.
Before the 4pm kickoff a minutes silence was held to remember the French athletes who had lost their lives so tragically in Argentina this week.
Once underway the French took to the offensive and were dominating the early exchanges, however the USA scored against the run of play in the 7th minute through full back Julie Johnston who headed in from a free kick inside the six yard box.. Les Francais continued to push forward and were denied in both the 21st and 39th minute by the USA keeper Hope Solo, whose stoppages would not have been out of place in a Mens International.
The USA had only one more shot at goal in the first half but it was sufficient by double their lead. Solo sent up a long ball to midfielder Rodriguez who flicked on to Kristen Press. Press took the ball past three defenders before picking her spot and slid it past Bouhaddi, the French keeper. 2-0 USA.
Although the French coach Phillipe Bergeroos must have given a mouthful to his team during the break they were unable to get that final touch against the US.
Finally in the 81st minute it looked like the French were about to get themselves back in the match with a penalty, which was justifiable after Delie was yanked to the groud by Klingenberg. Henry stepped forward to take the kick but Man actually Woman of the match Solo guessed correct and pushed the ball away to the right.
From here on the French seemed deflated and kind of new that their first Algave Cup Final was not to be theirs. Final score 2-0 to the USA.
Both managers had kind words about the game and their opposition while pointing out that this years competition held more importance as was the final competive group of matches before the World Cup starts in Canada in June. The USA coach Jill Ellis went on to thank their supporters and vowed to return next year to defend their trophy, and stressed that The 2016 Algarve Cup will be a great preparation for next years Olympics in Rio.
