The U.S. women's soccer team is battling to establish their soccer legitimacy to the world, reclaiming a mantle of respectability that was embodied by the inimitable Mia Hamm. On the way they had to fight their way through the mighty Brazil, and now they have toppled France, another powerhouse. See below for photos of their historic march towards soccer immortality.

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Abby Wambach (L) of the U.S. battles for the ball with France's Ophelie Meilleroux during their Women's World Cup semi-final soccer match in Monchengladbach July 13, 2011. REUTERS
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France's Gaetane Thiney (C) controls the ball between Heather O'Reilly (L) and Alex Krieger of the U.S. during their Women's World Cup semi-final soccer match in Monchengladbach July 13, 2011. REUTERS
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Hope Solo, the goalkeeper of the U.S. missed to make a save during the Women's World Cup semi-final soccer match against France in Monchengladbach July 13, 2011 REUTERS
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France's goalkeeper Berangere Sapowicz (L) makes a save in front of Abby Wambach (R) of the U.S. during their Women's World Cup semi-final soccer match in Monchengladbach July 13, 2011. REUTERS
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Hope Solo, the goalkeeper of the U.S. makes a save during the Women's World Cup semi-final soccer match against France in Monchengladbach July 13, 2011. REUTERS
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Lauren Cheney (L) of the U.S. scores a goal during the Women's World Cup semi-final soccer match against France in Monchengladbach July 13, 2011 REUTERS
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Lauren Cheney of the U.S. celebrates her goal during the Women's World Cup semi-final soccer match against France in Monchengladbach July 13, 2011. REUTERS