It was a spontaneous celebration that became an iconic image and for the first time, truly put women’s football on the world map.

The 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup was hosted by the USA and in the final, the Americans met the hosts of this years tournament; China.

In front of President Clinton and 90,184 other spectators, the USA squeezed to a 5-4 penalty shoot-out victory, with defender Brandi Chastain blasting home the winning penalty, before pulling her shirt over her head in wild celebration.

Earlier this year, I had the privilege to meet Brandi at a FIFA Com-Unity seminar in New Zealand, where in her role as a FIFA Ambassador, she was looking to help promote the forthcoming inaugural FIFA Women’s U17 World Cup in the land of the Kiwi.

After watching the first week of the tournament, and with the USA now confirmed as the quarter final opponents of The Three Lions in Tianjin this Saturday, this is what Brandi had to say to TheFA.com;

"I have been watching the World Cup during the wee hours of the morning here in Northern California. It has been a long time, 12 years exactly since I've had to watch a Women's World Cup through the television.

"It feels somewhat odd and far away but I am interested in all the match ups and outcomes. It has been nice to see England and Australia become main attractions.

"I always cheer for what people consider the underdog, but this time around for me, I know some of the players on the previously mentioned teams, so I feel a sort of connection and want them to do well.

"Take Kelly Smith for example. She is a national treasure, and has been the best kept secret in women's football for many years.

"I had the luxury - which sounds a bit odd seeing as she was an opponent - of seeing her up close whilst we both played in the WUSA; she for the Philadelphia Charge and I for the San Jose CyberRays.

"I was just yards away from her when she sustained her cruciate injury and wished her all the best for a speedy and strong recovery to the game that needed her presence. I am happy to see her back on the pitch, displaying the sort of awareness and technique that anyone can appreciate.

"I am American, and very proud to have represented my country - three World Cups and three Olympic Games in an international career spanning 17 years between 1987 and 2004 - as well as cheer it on, but I have found myself cheering for the likes of Kelly because she has skill, and isn't afraid to use it.
"Her goal celebration in the first game polarised opinion but when you are in the moment, your heart and your head couldn't be any further from one another.

"I saw England in the Argentina game and hope that with the clinching of a spot in the quarter final, the players truly enjoy the spirit of their performance as they realise their childhood dreams that have led them to this World Cup."