World Cup: U.S. women's team beats North Korea 2-0 in soccer opener

DRESDEN, Germany — Once, twice, three times and then a fourth, Lauren Cheney launched a shot with her foot only to watch it go right into the hands of the North Korean goalkeeper.

Finally, she used her head. And just like that, the Americans looked more like a team that could contend for a third Women’s World Cup title than the one that took a self-described “bumpy” road to Germany.

“I wasn’t frustrated,” said Cheney, whose goal in the 54th minute sparked a |2-0 win over North Korea on Tuesday. “I knew if I kept going, I’d get one. I’m pretty happy I did.”

So did her teammates. After hearing about their inconsistency and shortcomings for months, the win in their tournament opener gave the Americans a needed dose of confidence.

The Americans started the game strong, controlling play with crisp passing and good speed. But the young North Koreans gained confidence as time went on, shutting down the U.S. attack in the midfield and repeatedly pushing forward in the closing minutes before halftime.