 Known for scoring goals with diving headers , a technique she began honing as a youth in her hometown of Rochester , New York , one of her most notable header goals occurred in the 122nd minute of the 2011 FIFA Women 's World Cup quarterfinal match against Brazil . Wambach scored the equalizer in stoppage time helping the Americans to eventually progress to the championship final against Japan after defeating Brazil in penalty kicks . Her last @-@ minute goal set a new record for latest goal ever scored in a match and was awarded ESPN 's 2011 ESPY Award for Best Play of the Year . Following her performance at the 2011 World Cup , she was awarded the tournament 's Bronze Boot and Silver Ball . In 2011 , she became the first ever soccer player of either gender to be named Athlete of the Year by the Associated Press . 
