Lilly Seeks World Cup Title

TIANJIN, China -- United States captain Kristine Lilly is confident that further performances like the one they produced to defeat England on Saturday will see them go on to capture the World Cup. Team USA had been unable to find a way through the Three Lions' defense in the first half but a dominant display after the break saw them score three times through Abby Wambach, Shannon Box and Lilly to secure their passage to the semi-finals of the competition.

Brazil stands in their way of making it to the final and a chance of a third World Cup success. And Lilly believes the United States are capable of going all the way. "I thought it was one of our best games of the tournament," Lilly said of the win over England. "We played some good soccer and now we want to go on and win this. We're confident we can do it and a performance like this only adds to this confidence. I'm just waiting to see who we'll play and I'll look forward to it."

Coach Greg Ryan echoed Lilly's sentiments, admitting he could not pick any faults with the team's display. "It was the perfect performance," Ryan said. "England are a difficult team to defeat. They are very good defensively but I encouraged my players to go after the first goal, which is always crucial. Once we got it we were in control. I thought everyone played well." Ryan also singled out Lilly for special praise, admitting the University of North Carolina forward is a key component of the U.S. team. "Kristine has really been what we call the cornerstone of this team," he said. "The player that we've built this team around, the player to lead this team. On the field she leads by example and off the field she is a great leader for this team. We are just so fortunate to have a player with her experience level, and her passion for the game and compassion for her team-mates. "I can't imagine this team without her."