Hangzhou, China – Briana Scurry will replace Hope Solo as goalkeeper when the United States plays Brazil today with a spot in the women’s World Cup final on the line.
Coach Greg Ryan made an unexpected change in goal 24 hours before the semifinal, benching Solo in favor of the 36-year-old veteran who made the decisive save in the Americans’ win on penalty kicks over China in the 1999 championship game at the Rose Bowl.
Ryan announced the change Wednesday, catching most everyone by surprise. Solo started the first four games for the United States in the women’s World Cup – three wins and a draw.
Ryan said he moved to the veteran because of her unbeaten record against Brazil, and because she has the quick reflexes needed against the tricky, creative Brazilians.
