PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- The statistics say Mia Hamm is the best player in women's soccer history. Her play in this World Cup has spoken even louder than the numbers.
Hamm was as dominant as ever Thursday night, scoring twice, setting up another goal and even helping defensively in a 5-0 rout of Nigeria. The United States moved to the verge of the quarterfinals on the grace and power of the sport's career scoring leader.
"She's given us so much more than scoring," Kristine Lilly said. "She moved into the midfield tonight, was a playmaker and a defensive presence. She is doing what she is supposed to do and doing it great."
In the opener with Sweden, Hamm assisted on all three goals, two off her corner kicks that were headed home by Cindy Parlow and Shannon Boxx. Against the overmatched Nigerians, she gave the Americans an early lead and never allowed them to let up.
It was vintage Hamm before 31,553 fans who saw her increase her international goals total to 144 and her World Cup count to eight. With 12 assists, she has more points than any other player in the women's tournament.
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"That was Mia at her best," coach April Heinrichs said as the Americans moved to the top of Group A with six points. They need only a tie Sunday with North Korea to advance.
Sweden beat North Korea 1-0 Thursday. In Carson, Calif., it was Russia 3, Ghana 0 and China 1, Australia 1 in Group D.
