Sweden ended the top-ranked United States’ title defence on Sunday after prevailing in a dramatic penalty shootout, while the Netherlands downed underdogs South Africa 2-0 to reach the quarterfinals at the FIFA Women’s World Cup. Sweden ranked third, inflicted the U.S.’ earliest-ever Women’s World Cup exit after winning a nerve-jangling penalty shootout 5-4. The two teams had been deadlocked 0-0 after extra time in Melbourne. The U.S. missed three penalties in the shootout, including from retiring superstar Megan Rapinoe, and Sweden missed two, reports Xinhua. In the seventh round of penalties, substitute Lina Hurtig proved Sweden’s hero, but only after a VAR confirmation was needed to determine whether the ball had crossed the line before American keeper Alyssa Naeher caught it. “I think we came out today and showed what we’re all about,” U.S. coach Vlatko Andonovski said. “Unfortunately, soccer can be cruel sometimes.” Sweden will now play former champion Japan, while the Netherlands face sixth-ranked Spain, who thrashed Switzerland 5-1 on Saturday to reach their first quarterfinal. The U.S. had entered the blockbuster clash with uncertainty after a sluggish group phase, where they just squeezed into the knockout stage. The U.S. were left frustrated having dominated the first half with 62 per cent of possession and six shots on goal to Sweden’s two. Recalled Trinity Rodman proved to be a handful for Sweden’s defence, but couldn’t break the stalemate. Their best chance was in the 34th minute when co-captain Lindsey Horan flew highest, but her powerful header from a corner cannoned onto the crossbar. Horan had another golden opportunity shortly after half-time, but her wickedly curling attempt was spectacularly blocked by Sweden goalkeeper Zecira Musovic at full stretch. Musovic kept the U.S. at bay in the 89th minute with another stunning save to deny a sizzling header from co-captain Alex Morgan.