U.S. Women’s National Team Triumphs Over Iceland in Post-Olympic Opener
In an electrifying match at Q2 Stadium in Austin, Texas, the U.S. women’s national soccer team (USWNT) kicked off their post-Olympic campaign with a resounding 3-1 victory over Iceland. Late goals from Jaedyn Shaw and Sophia Smith sealed the win, showcasing the depth and talent of the squad as they celebrated their recent Olympic gold medal triumph.
A Strong Start with New Faces
Head coach Emma Hayes made a bold move by starting 10 members of the gold medal-winning team, while also giving Alyssa Thompson a chance to shine. The young forward, who has been making waves with Angel City FC, seized the opportunity with both hands. In the 39th minute, Thompson scored her first international goal, a stunning solo effort that set the tone for the match. Her ability to navigate through defenders and find the back of the net not only highlighted her skill but also her potential as a key player for the USWNT moving forward.
A Competitive Match
Despite the early lead, the match was far from one-sided. Both teams exchanged shots, with Iceland proving to be a formidable opponent. The visitors capitalized on a lapse in concentration from the USWNT defense, equalizing in the 56th minute. Selma Sol Magnusdottir took advantage of the space around her, unleashing a powerful shot from distance that caught the U.S. off guard. This goal served as a reminder that even the most dominant teams can face challenges, and it reignited the competitive spirit on the field.
Late-Game Brilliance
As the clock wound down, the USWNT intensified their efforts to reclaim the lead. After struggling to create quality chances for much of the second half, the team found their rhythm in the dying moments of the game. Shaw, who had been waiting for her moment, skillfully received a pass from Casey Krueger and slotted it home, marking her first goal for the national team since April. Just three minutes later, Smith followed suit, capitalizing on a loose ball and firing a shot from the edge of the penalty area that sealed the victory. The late surge not only showcased the team’s resilience but also their ability to perform under pressure.
Thompson’s Impact and the Future of the Team
Thompson’s goal is significant not just for her but for the USWNT as a whole. She is the fourth teenager to score for the team this year, a testament to the emerging talent within the squad. Historically, the USWNT has leaned heavily on experienced veterans, but Hayes has made it clear that she values the contributions of younger players. With the 2027 Women’s World Cup on the horizon, Thompson’s performance is a strong statement of intent as she aims to secure her place in the squad.
New Faces in the Mix
The match also provided an opportunity for newcomers Yazmeen Ryan and Hal Hershfelt to earn their first caps. Both players made impactful appearances, with Ryan particularly standing out by completing 14 passes in just 24 minutes on the field. Hayes emphasized that this friendly was part of a broader strategy to identify and integrate new talent into the team. With a futures camp scheduled for January in Los Angeles, Ryan and Hershfelt are likely to be the first of many players given a chance to prove themselves in the coming months.
Looking Ahead
The USWNT will continue their international window with a doubleheader against Iceland, with the next match set for Sunday at Nashville’s Geodis Park. Following that, they will face Argentina at Louisville’s Lynn Family Stadium on Wednesday. As the team builds momentum and integrates new talent, fans can expect exciting developments in the squad’s evolution.
For those eager to stay updated on women’s soccer, be sure to tune into "Attacking Third" on the Golazo Network, airing Mondays and Fridays for comprehensive coverage of the USWNT, NWSL, and WSL.