USWNT vs. Colombia: USA shines in SheBelieves Cup opener
The U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT) began their 2025 campaign on a high note, defeating Colombia 2-0 in their opening match of the SheBelieves Cup. Under the guidance of head coach Emma Hayes, this tournament serves as a platform for experimentation, allowing the integration of relatively inexperienced players and innovative tactical strategies. The squad’s successful outing saw standout performances from goal scorers Catarina Macario and Ally Sentnor, both of whom are part of a group of 14 players with 20 or fewer international appearances.
Macario’s Triumphant Return
Catarina Macario marked her long-awaited return to the pitch by scoring her first USWNT goal in three years during the match against Colombia. After enduring a challenging period sidelined by an ACL injury that kept her from participating in both the 2023 Women’s World Cup and the 2024 Olympic Games, Macario’s 33rd-minute goal was a significant milestone. It not only highlighted her scoring ability but also reminded fans of her exceptional skills and tactical awareness. Throughout the match, she showcased her versatility with a range of accurate passes and effective positioning, reflecting her potential to become a vital attacking asset for the team moving forward.
A New Generation Shines
The SheBelieves Cup provided an exciting opportunity for younger players to step into the spotlight. Ally Sentnor, the reigning U.S. Soccer Young Female Player of the Year, contributed to the scoreline by netting her first senior international goal in the 60th minute. Demonstrating flair and confidence, she received the ball on the left flank and skillfully cut in to score from a distance, leaving a remarkable impression on fans and coaches alike.
Another newcomer to watch is Lily Yohannes, who delivered an impressive performance in midfield, effectively supporting both the defense and offense. Her ability to maintain possession and distribute the ball played a crucial role in balancing the team’s attacking and defensive strategies, making her a strong candidate for future matches.
Debuting Players Make an Impact
Coach Hayes handed out first caps to several players, including defender Tara McKeown, whose defensive skills were particularly notable as a starter. McKeown’s journey to the national team has been a long one, but her hard work and dedication have culminated in this well-deserved debut. Meanwhile, substitutes Michelle Cooper and Gisele Thompson also had the opportunity to showcase their capabilities during the match, indicative of Hayes’s willingness to rotate the squad and test new formations.
Next Challenges for the USWNT
Following their successful opening match, the USWNT is set to face Australia on Sunday at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. This match will be an important test, as Australia consistently proves to be a formidable opponent in international women’s football. After that, the team will conclude the SheBelieves Cup with a matchup against Japan at San Diego’s Snapdragon Stadium. These games will not only be critical for gaining experience but also for further solidifying team dynamics ahead of future competitions.
For updates and detailed coverage of women’s football worldwide, check out trusted sources such as FIFA and BBC Sport.
