USWNT scored two late goals to beat Iceland 3-1 in an international friendly held in Austin, Texas. This match marked the team’s first game since their impressive gold medal victory at the Paris Olympics, showcasing their resilience and determination.
Alyssa Thompson, a rising star not included in the Olympic roster, ignited the scoring in the 39th minute with a stunning shot. At just 19 years old, this was her 10th cap and her inaugural international goal—a moment that will surely resonate in her career. Following her, Jaedyn Shaw, also 19, skillfully maneuvered past Iceland’s goalkeeper to secure a 2-1 lead late in the match. Sophia Smith, known for her role in the celebrated Triple Espresso trio, capped the victory with a third goal.
Coach Hayes remarked, “We looked like a team with a lot of players on the back end of a season,” reflecting on the team’s performance.
The match also featured several debuts. Hayes substituted Gotham FC forward Yazmeen Ryan in the 66th minute, along with midfielder Hal Hershfelt in the 72nd minute. While Hershfelt had been part of previous camps and was an alternate at the Olympics, this marked Ryan’s first call-up and cap.
Here are key takeaways from the match:
Play of the game:
The U.S. struggled with efficiency in the box during the first half, but that changed in the 39th minute. Thompson received the ball just outside the box, skillfully maneuvered past her defender, and fired an unstoppable shot into the upper netting, putting her team ahead 1-0 before halftime. This goal marked a significant milestone in her international career.
After a long absence from the national team, Thompson returned to form, having scored five goals in her last eight matches with Angel City. Her joy was palpable as she celebrated with teammates, particularly Smith, who embraced her on the sidelines.
“I felt like this is surreal,” Thompson expressed during halftime. “Getting my first goal, I can’t describe how I feel. I’m just so happy.”
Turning point:
Iceland leveled the score in the 56th minute with a long-range shot from Selma Magnúsdóttir that found the back of the net. However, the U.S. quickly regrouped.
In the 84th minute, Shaw received a precise pass from Casey Krueger, skillfully maneuvered around her defender, and executed a clever shot that slipped through Iceland’s goalkeeper’s legs, restoring the U.S. lead at 2-1. Shaw, who had a challenging Olympic experience due to injury, found redemption in this match.
Smith, who is gradually returning from an ankle injury, sealed the victory with a third goal in the 89th minute, striking from the top of the box.
“Soph is a top player,” Hayes praised. “She is becoming the prolific striker I want her to be.”
Key stat:
In a move to expand the player pool ahead of the 2027 World Cup, Hayes called up 26 players for this match. Among them were six uncapped players, 14 with fewer than 20 caps, and 21 under the age of 30. This strategy highlights the team’s commitment to nurturing young talent.
Thompson and Shaw, both 19, exemplify the promising future of the USWNT.
What’s next for the USWNT?
The U.S. team will continue to celebrate its Olympic triumph in the coming days, honoring the retirement of Kelley O’Hara and recognizing Mallory Swanson and Rose Lavelle for reaching the milestone of 100 caps.
