Alabama’s Padelski, United States Women’s U-17 FIFA World Cup Team Qualify for Semifinals

SANTIAGO DE LOS CABALLEROS, Dominican Republic. –– Alabama soccer's Madeline Padelski and the United States Under-17 World Cup team advanced to the semifinals after securing a 2-0 victory over Nigeria on Saturday. The victory marked just the second time the United States reached the U-17 World Cup semifinals and first time since the inaugural tournament in 2008. The United States will play the winner of North Korea and Poland on Oct. 30 in the semifinals.

Padelski earned her first start in the tournament, playing 65 minutes in the quarterfinal match to help secure a spot in the top four.

Earlier in the tournament, Padelski scored a goal to help the U.S. reach the knock out stage. She netted the final goal of the match, dribbling down the left side of the field before cutting the ball around a defender and onto her right foot. She fired a shot from the top of the box to secure the fifth goal of the match in the 87^th minute.

In addition to its 2-0 win over Nigeria in the quarterfinals, the United States defeated Korea Republic, 5-0, and Colombia, 2-0, and lost to Spain, 3-1. The U.S. finished second in Group B to earn a spot in the knockout round.

Padelski at the World Cup

Earned her first start in the quarterfinals against Nigeria
Scored her first goal in the World Cup against Korea Republic
Saw her World Cup debut in the United States' opening match against Spain, coming off the bench in the 63^rd minute
Came off the bench in the 64^th minute against Colombia and at halftime against Korea Republic
Padelski took a shot in the 87^th minute against Spain and three shots against Korea Republic – which included her goal in the 87^th minute
One of 21 athletes competing for the United States at the international event
Also, one of just four collegiate players on the U.S. roster, joining Trinity Armstrong (North Carolina), Mary Long (Duke) and Katie Scott (Penn State)