USWNT vs Australia: SheBelieves Cup Match Recap and Analysis

Image credits: Getty Images

The US Women's National Team continued their winning streak in the SheBelieves Cup with a 2-1 victory over Australia. The match, played at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, saw the USWNT dominate the early minutes of the game, with Lynn Biyendolo scoring her 22nd international goal just 41 seconds into the contest. The goal was a result of a well-connected play between Emma Sears and Jaedyn Shaw, who sent the ball to Biyendolo, allowing her to score from close range.

The USWNT's attacking performance was impressive, with several players, including Shaw, Sears, and Biyendolo, working their way around Australia's back line. The team's midfield also showed promise, with Claire Hutton making her debut and impressing with her performance. The USWNT's defense was solid, with goalkeeper McGlynn making several crucial saves to keep the Matildas at bay. The team's overall strategy and tactics were well-executed, with head coach Emma Hayes using the game to experiment with fresh faces and new ideas.

Australia, however, was able to settle into the game and create several scoring opportunities. Michelle Heyman scored for the Matildas in the 80th minute, keeping the game competitive. The USWNT's second goal came in the 68th minute, with Michelle Cooper scoring her first international goal. The play began with Hutton, who sent the ball into the box to Ally Sentnor, who then carved her way around Australia's defense before playing a quick pass to Cooper, who finished from close range.

The match was a testament to the USWNT's depth and talent, with several players making the most of their opportunities. The team's ability to adapt to different lineups and formations was also on display, with Hayes making 11 changes from the previous lineup. The USWNT's next match is against Japan on Wednesday, where the winner will claim the SheBelieves Cup title. Here are the match scores and statistics:

• USWNT 2, Australia 1
• Goals: Lynn Biyendolo (USWNT), Michelle Cooper (USWNT), Michelle Heyman (Australia)
• Assists: Jaedyn Shaw (USWNT), Ally Sentnor (USWNT)
• Saves: McGlynn (USWNT) - 5, Micah (Australia) - 4

The USWNT's victory over Australia was a significant one, as it marked the team's second win in the SheBelieves Cup. The team's performance was impressive, with several players standing out, including Hutton, Shaw, and Cooper. The team's ability to work together and create scoring opportunities was also on display, with the USWNT dominating possession and creating several chances throughout the match.