The United States is off to a perfect start in the Women's World Cup quarterfinal round, putting Brazil in an early hole, 1-0. In the second minute, Shannon Boxx sent a cross into the mixer, only to see it misplayed by the Brazilian defense, resulting in an own goal. Daiane was charged with the goal and the USA had itself the early lead in Sunday's blockbuster Women's World Cup quarterfinal matchup.
After a rough outing on Wednesday against Sweden, many expected the United States back-line to be the weak link in Sunday's matchup with Brazil. It was a bit ironic seeing Brazil misplaying a cross so early to give the USA lead, though they'll take it any way they can get it. With the all-important first goal in hand, the USA has a cushion now, and has Brazil in a perilous position.
Hope Solo is perfect through 16 minutes, though she's yet to be seriously tested. She's only given up two goals in this Women's World Cup, both of which came against Sweden. Solo has not allowed a goal each of the four times she's faced Brazil since the 2007 World Cup -- a match she was benched for in favor of Brianna Scurry.
For more on the tournament, be sure to visit SB Nation Soccer's 2011 Women's World Cup StoryStream. Stay with this StoryStream for more on Hope Solo and the United States Womens National Team.