England’s World Cup own goal is Buckner-level heartbreak
The ball didn’t get through England defender Laura Bassett, but she might wish it had.
In the 92nd minute of the World Cup semifinal clash between England and Japan, Bassett scored a stunning own goal that sent her side to a heartbreaking 2-1 loss. Just moments before the match would have gone to extra time, her botched clearance caught the underside of the crossbar and bounced across the goal line. The accidental score broke a 1-1 deadlock and booked a spot in the final for Japan.
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For some viewers, the devastating defeat evoked memories of the infamous miscue of former Red Sox first baseman Bill Buckner in Game 6 of the 1986 World Series.
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Shortly after the final whistle sounded on his side’s defeat, England coach Mark Sampson spoke glowingly of Bassett’s contribution throughout the tournament.
“Laura should be remembered as an absolute hero,’’ he told FOX on the field. “People will remember the Laura Bassett who headed, blocked and tackled.’’
While attempting to put a positive spin on a disappointing conclusion to an impressive performance in Canada, Sampson also addressed the emotion of the moment.
“It’s OK to cry,’’ he responded when asked what his postgame message had been to his players. “I mean, they left everything on the field. They couldn’t have given any more, and it’s just a really tough way to go out of the tournament.’’
England will face Germany in the third place-match on Saturday, July 4. Japan will face the United States in the final on Sunday, July 5.
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Meet The U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team:
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