A bit of Hope helps U.S. women

DRESDEN, Germany -- The world's best player went up against the best goalkeeper and scored three times. So guess who won?

The goalkeeper.

U.S. goalkeeper Hope Solo -- hands down.

Despite scoring twice during play and once in the penalty shootout, Brazil superstar Marta lost a shot at the World Cup and, through her matchlong complaining, the goodwill of the fans in one of the most memorable women's soccer matches ever played.

And after the quarterfinal shootout victory by the United States over Brazil after the teams tied 2-2, Solo was given the player of the match award by the world's biggest experts -- the FIFA technicians. No questions asked.

In the end, Solo had the final piece of evidence that turned this most amazing of matches. When Brazil's Daiane lined up for her penalty, Solo stretched out to her right and batted it away -- reading the shot perfectly and having the reaction speed to get there.

"Hope, amazing. She's the best goalkeeper in the world," captain Christie Rampone said. "We kept saying, 'Hope's gonna get one. Hope's gonna get one. We just have to finish them off.' "

Solo had the sellout crowd of 25,598 eating out of her gloved hands, a picture of cool on a hot afternoon.

With two goals Sunday, Marta became World Cup scoring leader with 14 overall, tying Germany's Birgit Prinz on the all-time list. Marta, though, is just 25, and Prinz effectively retired from the World Cup with Germany's loss against Japan on Saturday.

"Yes, she got the goal. It happens, I guess," Solo said. "I don't think she was too much of a threat."

Emotions may get in the way of judgment.

Solo has gotten into the way of Marta before. The Brazilian was on the verge of scoring the goal that would give Brazil's women the Olympic gold medal in Beijing. Solo stopped that shot with her most memorable save -- before yesterday.

Marta's left-footed blast from 6 yards looked certain to be a winner. But Solo, tucked alongside the near post, leaned forward, thrust up her right arm and smacked the ball away.

Sunday's World Cup quarterfinal was their first match since that 2008 Olympic final, and again, Solo came out on top.

"Marta is the best player in the world, hands down. However, this team is better than one player," U.S. coach Pia Sundhage said.

"Especially with Solo in goal."