There are few feelings more deflating in the game of soccer than allowing an own goal.
Sending the ball into your own net in the semifinal of World Cup action is one example of a more painful, disastrous moment.
In the 92nd minute of a 1-1 tie against defending champion Japan, England defender Laura Bassett attempted to clear a well-placed cross, but her ill-fated deflection crossed the goal line and gave Japan a 2-1 lead.
Own Goal in the 92nd minute. 2-1 #JPN. Wow. #WWC2015 pic.twitter.com/EJKXQIdrwO
— Ben Jata (@Ben_Jata) July 2, 2015
England had one final attack, but a panicked volley bounced wide left and sealed Japan’s victory.
Japan advanced to the World Cup Final and will take on the United States, which is a rematch of the 2011 championship. The U.S. knocked off Germany 2-0 to reach the Final.
Photo: USA Today Sports