With new coach watching from afar, USWNT gets a lift from win over China
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — The US Women’s National Soccer Team (USWNT) secured a 3-0 victory over China in their first match since the appointment of Emma Hayes as their new coach. Despite being five time zones and an ocean away in London, Hayes watched her future team play through a live feed. While pleased with much of what she saw, Hayes understands that there is still a substantial amount of work to be done before the Paris Olympics next summer.
Key player Trinity Rodman, who plays for the Washington Spirit, contributed a goal and two assists in the match. She also had the opportunity to meet her idol, retired tennis star Serena Williams, after the game. Sophia Smith and Lindsey Horan also scored, extending the USWNT’s unbeaten streak to five games, all without conceding a single goal.
Hayes, currently the longtime coach of Chelsea, will continue to monitor the USWNT from afar until she officially steps into her new role. During this time, she will collaborate with interim coach Twila Kilgore on various aspects of the team, including rosters, lineups, and tactics. Kilgore confirmed that Hayes watched the match live and they will discuss her viewpoint once she has time.
The players expressed their enthusiasm for the direction and energy brought by Hayes. They emphasized the importance of establishing a new identity under her leadership, and the relief they feel knowing who will be coaching them going forward. Captain Lindsey Horan acknowledged the progress the team has made, but also identified areas where they could have been more effective in their performance.
The match against China also saw the debut of midfielders Jenna Nighswonger and Olivia Moultrie, as well as the return of center-back Abby Dahlkemper after a 20-month absence due to back surgery. The second half featured a lineup that included several young players, showcasing the team’s potential for the future.
The United States took an early lead in the eighth minute when Trinity Rodman’s cross found Sophia Smith, who beat the goalkeeper to score. Smith, typically a wing, started as a center forward in this match, while regular starter Alex Morgan was not included in the roster. The team demonstrated promising moments throughout the game, but Kilgore expressed the need for greater clinical finishing.
The lead grew in the 52nd minute when Lindsey Horan’s attempted pass resulted in an accidental goal. Her chipped ball towards Jaedyn Shaw froze the goalkeeper momentarily, allowing the ball to bounce into the net. In the 77th minute, Shaw’s deflected cross fell to Rodman, who tapped it in for her second goal of the match.
After the game, Rodman had an exciting encounter with Serena Williams, who expressed a desire to meet her and requested her jersey. Rodman happily obliged, giving Williams her jersey, capping off a memorable day.
The USWNT will face China once again in Frisco, Texas, to conclude their 2023 schedule. With the team undergoing a transition phase, they drew a smaller audience for this match compared to previous games. Former player Ali Krieger, who recently retired after leading Gotham FC to the NWSL title, will be honored before the next match for her contributions to the national team.
In conclusion, the USWNT’s victory over China provided a boost under the watchful eye of their future coach, Emma Hayes. The team showcased promising performances from key players and young talent, offering a glimpse of their potential for future success. With the Paris Olympics in sight, the players and coaching staff will continue their preparations and work towards building a new identity under Hayes’ leadership.
