SOCCER/WOMEN'S WORLD CUP:THE UNITED States beat Brazil in a penalty shoot-out yesterday to maintain their record of always reaching at least the semi-finals of the Women's World Cup.

The US, down to 10 players from the 66th minute when Rachel Buehler was red-carded, won the shoot-out 5-3 in Dresden, Germany, after the match was tied 2-2 following extra time, with US forward Abby Wambach levelling the game in injury time of extra time.

“That is a perfect example of what this country is all about,” Wambach told ESPN. “We never gave up. I don’t have many words for this, it’s unbelievable.”

The US took the lead after only two minutes when Brazil’s Daiane mishit a clearance and sent the ball into her own net. Fabiana hit the bar after 36 minutes from a tight angle as Brazil created one of their few clear chances in the first half, with the US also hitting the bar on 63 minutes.

Brazil were awarded a penalty when Buehler was sent off for a tackle on Marta. Cristiane’s spot-kick was saved by Hope Solo, but the referee ordered the penalty to be retaken because of encroachment into the area. Marta successfully converted.

In extra time, Marta put Brazil ahead early on as she looped in a shot off the far post.

When Brazil were unable to keep hold of the ball in the final moments of extra time the US managed to break and Wambach headed into the net.

The shoot-out started in dramatic fashion as Brazil goalkeeper Andreia saved from Shannon Boxx, but for a second time in the match a retake was ordered. Boxx converted.

With the US leading 3-2 on penalties, Daiane stepped up for Brazil and Solo made the save. Megan Rapinoe and Alex Krieger then scored for the US.

“They bring out the best performance in each other,” coach Pia Sundhage, a Swede, said. “Right now I’m the happiest person on earth.”

The US, two-time champions, will face France in the next round. Sweden advanced to a semi-final against Japan with a 3-1 win against Australia.