15 Times Megan Rapinoe Took Over the Game

These 15 moments illustrate precisely when and how Megan Rapinoe took full control of the game on the world's biggest soccer stages.

Sophia Zapanta
June 6, 2025
5 min read

15 Times Megan Rapinoe Took Over the Game — Christopher Hanewinckel-Imagn Images

Megan Rapinoe built her career on bold, game-changing plays and fearless leadership. Across World Cups, Olympics, and league games, she stepped up in high-pressure moments and delivered. These 15 matches prove how her vision, control, and confidence shaped the outcome again and again.

1. Assist vs. Colombia (2011 World Cup)

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In a 3–0 win over Colombia, Rapinoe came off the bench and made an instant impact. She scored a goal and celebrated by grabbing a mic and singing Bruce Springsteen, but more importantly, her energy lifted the team. Her quick passing and movement stretched the defense. It was a turning point in her international presence.

2. Cross to Abby Wambach vs. Brazil (2011 World Cup)

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Down 2–1 in extra time, Rapinoe sent a perfect long cross to Abby Wambach, who headed in a dramatic equalizer. It was the 122nd minute of play. That moment forced a penalty shootout, which the U.S. won. The pass is still considered one of the greatest assists in World Cup history.

3. Hat Trick vs. Australia (2012 Olympics)

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Against a strong Australia side in a pre-Olympic friendly, Rapinoe scored three goals in one of her sharpest games. She moved between lines and controlled the midfield while finishing with precision. It gave the team momentum as they headed into London. Her ability to create and score made her the central figure.

4. Goal and Assist vs. Canada (2012 Olympics Semifinal)

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In one of the most dramatic matches in Olympic soccer history, Rapinoe scored twice — once directly from a corner kick. She later assisted the winning goal in extra time. Her influence that night was complete. Without her, the U.S. would not have reached the final.

5. Leadership vs. Japan (2015 World Cup Final)

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Rapinoe didn’t score in the final, but she ran the left wing and created space for Carli Lloyd’s legendary performance. Her defensive work and passing were sharp all match. She kept the pace high and made smart decisions. Her composure set the tone in a high-stakes game.

6. Penalty vs. Spain (2019 World Cup Round of 16)

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In a rough and physical match, Rapinoe calmly scored two penalties. Both were under pressure, and both were perfectly placed. The U.S. won 2–1 and moved on. Her focus didn’t waver in a game full of stops and tension.

7. Brace vs. France (2019 World Cup Quarterfinal)

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With the host nation pressing hard, Rapinoe scored twice in a 2–1 win over France. One was a clever free kick through a crowded box, the other a sharp finish in transition. She delivered when many thought France had the edge. It was a clear case of a big player taking over a big game.

8. Goal vs. England (2019 World Cup Semifinal)

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Rapinoe opened the scoring against England in the semifinal, sending the U.S. to another final. She stayed composed as England pressed back. The photo of her celebrating with her arms out became instantly iconic. She had total control over the pace and outcome.

9. Penalty in World Cup Final vs. Netherlands (2019)

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Rapinoe scored the first goal of the 2019 final from the penalty spot. She was calm and direct under pressure. That goal broke the deadlock and shifted the momentum fully to the U.S. She was later awarded the Golden Boot and Golden Ball.

10. Golden Boot Run (2019 World Cup)

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Throughout the 2019 tournament, Rapinoe scored six goals and led the U.S. in scoring. She wasn’t just finishing — she dictated tempo, picked key passes, and controlled the rhythm of every knockout match. Her confidence was unmatched. That full stretch of dominance earned her FIFA’s Best Women’s Player award later that year.

11. Two Assists in NWSL Final (2022)

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With OL Reign in the NWSL playoffs, Rapinoe delivered two crucial assists in the semifinal. Her vision broke down defenses with one-touch crosses and clever through balls. Even as defenders closed in, she created space with precise touches. She raised the level of play in a must-win game.

12. Late Winner vs. Portland Thorns (2019)

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In a tight rivalry game, Rapinoe scored a late free kick to seal the win for OL Reign. The shot curved perfectly over the wall. Her celebration was calm but fierce. She had found the one opening and used it.

13. Return from Injury with Impact (2021)

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After dealing with injuries, Rapinoe returned to play with the U.S. in 2021 and scored in her first game back. She brought balance and control to the attack instantly. The team looked more composed with her on the field. Her return reminded everyone how much her presence changed the game.

14. Brace vs. Australia (2021 Olympics Bronze Match)

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In the bronze medal match, Rapinoe scored twice, including a rare olimpico goal straight from a corner. She lifted the team after a frustrating tournament. Her experience showed in how she handled the pace and pressure. It was a strong finish to her Olympic career.

15. Final U.S. Cap (2023)

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In her final game for the U.S. Women’s National Team, Rapinoe played with full control and left the field to a standing ovation. While she didn’t score, she directed the game’s tempo from the wing. Her farewell was emotional, but she stayed focused until the final whistle. She ended her national career as one of the most decisive players the team ever had.