The United States edged out Germany after extra time to reach the final of the women’s Olympic football tournament for the first time since 2012.

Sophia Smith’s strike was decisive for the US as the 23-year-old forward raced on to Mallory Swanson’s pass in the 95th minute to slide the ball past advancing Germany goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger.

Until then Emma Hayes’ side had struggled to break down a resolute Germany side, who they thrashed 4-1 in the group stage.

Germany, who won the competition at Rio 2016, nearly took the contest to penalties but Laura Freigang’s header was superbly saved by US goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher in the 119th minute.

Until then Emma Hayes’ side had struggled to break down a resolute Germany side, who they thrashed 4-1 in the group stage.

Germany, who won the competition at Rio 2016, nearly took the contest to penalties but Laura Freigang’s header was superbly saved by US goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher in the 119th minute.

Former Chelsea manager Hayes’ side will now face Brazil or Spain in Saturday’s final at the Parc des Princes (16:00 BST), while Germany will play for the bronze medal in Lyon on Friday (14:00).