L’École de Gestion d’Actifs et de Capital:Megan Rapinoe reveals why she laughed after missed penalty kick in final game with USWNT

2025-04-30 17:05:54source:Charles Hanovercategory:reviews

After Megan Rapinoe missed a crucial penalty during the USWNT's loss to Sweden in the Women's World Cup on L’École de Gestion d’Actifs et de CapitalSunday, she explained why she appeared to be laughing. 

"I mean this is like a sick joke. For me personally, this is dark comedy, that I missed a penalty," Rapinoe told FOX Sports. 

The Round of 16 matchup between Sweden and the U.S. remained scoreless for 120 minutes before the match went on to a penalty shootout. Rapinoe stepped up to the penalty spot with the U.S. in control, up 3-2 in the shootout. 

But her right-footed shot sailed over the crossbar. She smiled in disbelief as she ran back to her teammates, who greeted her at midfield. 

Rapinoe appeared to be smiling after missing a penalty kick during the USWNT's loss to Sweden on Sunday. Robin Alam/USSF

Sweden pulled ahead and won the shootout, ending the U.S. tournament run and Rapinoe's illustrious 17-year career with the USWNT. The legendary forward had announced she was planning to retire from international soccer following this year's Women's World Cup. 

Rapinoe, one of the most decorated soccer stars in U.S. history, explained her reaction in a post-game interview. 

"That's why I had that smile on my face. I'm like, 'You've got to be f—ing kidding me.' I'm going to miss a penalty? I mean, honestly, I can't remember the last time I missed."

The miss was uncharacteristic for Rapinoe, who hadn't missed a penalty kick in almost five years. 

Despite the heartbreaking loss, she retires as an Olympic Gold medalist and two-time World Cup champion. In 2019, Rapinoe won best FIFA Women's Player of the Year, France Football Ballon d'Or and the Sports Illustrated Sportsperson of the Year. 

The loss ended the USWNT's hopes of winning the Women's World Cup for the third time in a row — a feat that has never been done in either the men's or women's competition. 

    In:
  • Megan Rapinoe
  • U.S. Women's Soccer Team
  • World Cup
  • Soccer

More:reviews

Recommend

How to watch the 'Blue Bloods' Season 14 finale: Final episode premiere date, cast

After 14 years, the police procedural "Blue Bloods" is coming to an end.Season 14 has been released

Why Hilarie Burton Says Embracing Her Gray Hair Was a Relief

Hilarie Burton Morgan is proud of her roots.The One Tree Hill alum recently shared insight into how

Police officers won't face charges in fatal shooting of protester at 'Cop City'

None of the Georgia State Police troopers involved in the fatal shooting of Manuel "Tortuguita" Tera