The American icon took the match by the scruff of the neck in the early going and never let go. Running tirelessly, scoring two goals and providing another, the creative striker was the only real candidate for Bud Light Player of the Match honours.
In only the sixth minute, she stepped up and fired a penalty past Nigerian keeper Precious Dede – joining an ultra-select group of females who have scored in every FIFA Women’s World Cup finals.
Just six minutes after opening the American account, she lofted a free kick from 35 yards past the hapless Nigerian net-minder. And she was not done yet, as she laid on a perfect corner for team mate Cindy Parlow to slam home in the 47th minute.
It was a peculiarly dominant performance from the USA’s footballing sweetheart. And FIFA Technical Study Group member Hope Powell gave full kudos to the rampant striker. “She was all over the pitch and made no mistakes,” she said. She really played brilliantly and led her side to victory.”
Hamm was happy with the result and typically modest after receiving the MVP laurels. “It was very important for us to win this match,” she said. “In scoring early we were trying to break their spirit and kill the game, but they (Nigeria) never gave up. They are a very resilient side.”
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