A good goalkeeper is worth their weight in gold. USWNT knows this well, having enlisted a series of icons between the sticks, from Briana Scurry to Hope Solo.
Since 2014, that post has belonged to Chicago Red Stars netminder Alyssa Naeher. The Bridgeport, Connecticut native has made 112 appearances for the Stars and Stripes, leading from the back as the Americans took home hardware in the 2019 World Cup and 2021 Tokyo Games.
She hadn't, however, claimed an Olympic gold medal for herself. So on Saturday, with the eyes of the world watching and aureate jewelry on the line, Naeher did what she's tended to do over the course of her career with the senior national team: she made saves.
Naeher recorded a handful of saves, some of the casual variety, others in which she was required to pull out all the stops. They all served the same purpose — crushing Brazil's spirit and, ultimately, helping lead the Americans to their fifth Olympic title.
Here's a look at the best moments of Naeher's glimmering display at the Parc des Prince.
MORE: How Mallory Swanson's goal led USWNT to first Olympic gold medal since 2012
Alyssa Naeher saves today
Naeher conjured up magic with her hands on a pair of occasions, one of which took place in the first half, the other which was saved until the final few moments of the game.
The 36-year-old stretched every bit of her 5-9 frame in the first, answering Gabi Portilho's venomous strike with a strong palm and an acrobatic leap.
Naeher's first save was impressive. Her second was wondrous, requiring her to spring into action after Adriana latched onto a delicate floated pass as the game dwindled to its finish. The Orlando Pride forward had acres of space and time to pick her spot. She opted to place her effort in the top corner, expecting to see the net ripple shortly thereafter.
Naeher had different plans. She leapt to the heavens, extending her arms to eclipse the ever-so-tempting goal. With one hand, she batted away Adriana's effort. Naeher had the presence of mind to send her attempt away from danger as well, flashing her impressive footballing IQ in the process.
It wasn't the first time Naeher had produced a last-minute save in this tournament — she did the same against Germany one game ago, in the semifinals. This one was for hardware, however. Naeher was undeterred by the added pressure.
Now, she's an Olympic champion. And her presence will linger in the halls of USWNT lore, as was the case for Scurry and Solo.
All in a day's work for USWNT's sentry.
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