In a nail-biting match at Eden Park in Auckland, New Zealand, the United States Women's National Team managed to scrape through to the knockout stages of the Women's World Cup. Despite a lackluster performance, the defending champions held on for a goalless draw against debutants Portugal, narrowly avoiding a shocking upset.

The American team, which has never been eliminated in the group stage of the World Cup, found themselves in a precarious position heading into the match. Needing a win to guarantee their progression, the pressure was on. However, they struggled to find the back of the net, squandering several chances throughout the game.

Even the introduction of veteran Megan Rapinoe in the second half failed to ignite the team's energy or turn the tide against Portugal's physical defense. The Americans breathed a sigh of relief in stoppage time when Ana Capeta's shot struck the post, and moments later, they survived another scare when Capeta won a free kick just outside the box.

Meanwhile, in a simultaneous match in Dunedin, the Netherlands secured a resounding 7-0 victory over Vietnam, knocking the United States off the top spot in Group E. The Netherlands' dominant performance meant that the Americans would progress as the second seed and now face the winners of Group G in the last-16 tie, likely to be Olympic silver medalists Sweden.

The match against Portugal showcased the United States' lackluster form and inability to finish their chances. Lynn Williams had an early opportunity with a header, but Portugal goalkeeper Ines Pereira denied her. The Americans controlled possession and created better opportunities, but their finishing touch was missing, resulting in a frustrating goalless draw at halftime.

Rose Lavelle received a yellow card in the 38th minute, her second of the group stage, ruling her out of the team's next match. The frustration of the American fans was palpable, with scattered boos heard at halftime. To add to the drama, a fire alarm briefly interrupted the game early in the second half, causing a temporary halt.

Despite a free kick from a dangerous position in the 57th minute, Alex Morgan's header sailed over the goal, leaving her visibly frustrated. Rapinoe entered the game as a substitute in the 61st minute, but even her presence couldn't provide the breakthrough the team desperately needed.

The United States' survival in the tournament was thanks in large part to Ana Capeta's missed chance in extra time. The Portuguese forward had a golden opportunity to put her team ahead, but her shot struck the post, leaving the American players and fans breathing a collective sigh of relief.

Reflecting on the match, star forward Alex Morgan acknowledged that the result was not what they had hoped for but emphasized the importance of moving forward. With their spot in the knockout stage secured, the team now shifts their focus to the next game, knowing that it is the only one that matters in their quest for a historic third consecutive World Cup title.

The United States will likely face Sweden in the knockout stage, setting up a highly anticipated clash between two powerhouse teams.