U.S. defeats Sweden to clinch top spot in Group

LE HAVRE, France — The U.S. national soccer team’s visit to this port city on the English Channel on Thursday was for the purpose of playing its third and final group match at the Women’s World Cup.

After two breezy victories, however, it felt more like the start of things.

Although the reigning champions won again — 2-0 over Sweden at Stade Oceane — and completed group play in perfect fashion, the opponent was markedly better. Scoring opportunities were more difficult to come by. Goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher was finally tested.

After 90 solid minutes, highlighted by Lindsey Horan’s goal early in the first half and an own goal early in the second, the top-ranked Americans found themselves atop…