'Best defender I've ever seen' - Emma Hayes heaps praise on 'unbelievable' Naomi Girma as USWNT reach Olympics final after dramatic win over Germany

The United States women's national team edged out Germany 1-0 on Tuesday to reach the final of the Olympic games. Portland Thorns' star forward Sophia Smith scored the all-important goal in extra time to secure a medal for her side.

Amid the attackers getting all the credit, and rightly so, for helping the team reach the final, manager Hayes heaped praise on centre-back Girma, who has played a stellar role in keeping her side unbeaten in the competition thus far. The USWNT has conceded only two goals in the five matches they have played.

Speaking to reporters at her post-match press conference, the former Chelsea boss said: "Look, she's the best defender I've ever seen. I've never seen a player as good as her at the back. She's got everything, poise, composure, she can defend, she anticipates, she leads. [She's] unbelievable."

Hayes' side will now aim to bag their record-extending fifth Olympic gold medal as they take on Brazil on Saturday in the final at Parc des Princes in Paris.