Sundhage steps down

Location : Savannah, Ga.

Quote :: U.S. Women’s National Team head coach Pia Sundhage has decided to return home to pursue opportunities in Sweden.

“After the Olympics we had discussions and early in the process it became clear that Pia was very interested in returning home to Sweden,” said U.S. Soccer President Sunil Gulati. “It certainly wasn’t an easy decision for U.S. Soccer or Pia. She deserves a tremendous amount of credit for the amazing success the U.S. Women’s National Team had during the past five years. On behalf of U.S. Soccer, we sincerely appreciate Pia’s hard work, dedication and commitment to the organization. We wish her all the best in the future.”

Gulati and U.S. Soccer CEO/Secretary General Dan Flynn will begin the search process for a new coach immediately, but there is no set timetable for when a decision will be determined.

Location : Savannah, Ga.

Quote :: In a fitting end to Pia Sundhage's reign as national team coach, the U.S. women pounded Australia, 6-2, in front of a sell-out crowd of 18,589 fans at Dick's Sporting Goods Park. Sundhage completed her five years with the U.S. women with a 91-6-10 record that included two Olympic gold medals and a second-place finish at the 2011 Women's World Cup. Wednesday's win improved the USA's record to 23-1-1 in 2012.

"I think I'm a better coach after having been here for five years coaching on the highest level, in three finals and making all kinds of decisions with the team," said Sundhage. "I'm very grateful and very happy for the team. It's the best team in the world."

Alex Morgan had two goals and Abby Wambach scored the game-winner as the USA scored four second-half goals to beat the Matildas for its 14th consecutive victory dating back to early April.