CHICAGO — Hope Solo made history Saturday in the U.S. women's national team's 1-0 win against South Africa by recording her 100th shutout with the national team.
Playing in one of two friendlies before the Rio Olympics, Solo became the first in USWNT history to record 100 shutouts. It was also her 150th win.
"The monkey is off my back, and it feels good," Solo said after the game. "Honestly I'm just really proud of it, really happy about it."
MORE: Get to know Team USA with these portraits
Even though Solo wasn't called into action very often against South Africa's counterattacking style — she was only forced to make two saves — she was pleased with the way she organized the defense and made calls throughout the game that led to her impressive accomplishment.
"It was a little bit of a tough game for us," Solo said. "We had to figure out a way to keep a clean sheet and it wasn't easy by any means. I had to keep them (defense) organized and I had to stay in the game mentally. I'm very proud we stayed focused and got the job done."
Crystal Dunn, who scored the decisive goal in the 35th minute Saturday, lauded Solo's accomplishment.
"Ever since I've joined the team, I feel like there has been someone who has made their mark in history," Dunn said. "What I love most, is that she (Solo) credited everyone and it's not just about her. It's been a crazy journey."
Solo has often stepped up with the brightest lights shining on her. Thirty-one of her 100 shutouts have come in big tournaments, which is something head coach Jill Ellis appreciates about her career.
MORE: U.S. women's team demands fair treatment, equal pay
"Her (Solo's) legacy is set," Ellis said. "She's a tremendous, world class goalkeeper. Not just for us, but for the world. She's a player that goes into those big moments and just gets better. It's remarkable what's she's achieved."
The USWNT is now 91-0-9 having outscored the opposition 276-0 in Solo's shutouts. The team has one more friendly before trying to become the first team to back up a World Cup victory with Olympic gold.