The Women’s World Cup Penalty Shootout (1999)
In the final of the 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup, the United States faced China in a match that ended in a goalless draw. The game went to a penalty shootout, and with the score tied at 4-4, U.S. goalkeeper Briana Scurry made a crucial save, setting the stage for Brandi Chastain’s winning penalty kick. Chastain’s celebratory moment, ripping off her shirt in sheer elation, became an iconic image that symbolized the growth and triumph of women’s soccer.