The United States women’s national team kicked off their 2023 World Cup campaign with an impressive 3-0 victory over Vietnam. Here are the key highlights and stats from the game:
Reigning NWSL MVP, Sophia Smith, made a significant impact on the game by opening the scoring in the 14th minute. She received an assist from Alex Morgan and confidently found the back of the net. Smith continued her stellar performance by scoring a brace in first-half stoppage time after an offside call was reversed.
U.S. co-captain Lindsey Horan extended the lead to 3-0 in the 77th minute, courtesy of an assist from Smith. However, Morgan, the team’s other captain, had a penalty kick blocked late in the first half.
The American team faced an early scare when forward Trinity Rodman suffered an apparent back issue just one minute into the game after a challenge. Trainers brought out the stretcher, but Rodman managed to walk off gingerly under her own power and later returned to the field.
One of the standout moments of the game was Smith’s early breakthrough goal. The official Twitter account of the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team shared a video of the goal, which quickly gained attention and excitement among fans.
In terms of statistics, this game featured the youngest lineup to start a World Cup match for the USWNT since 2007. The players had an average age of 27.8 years and had accumulated a total of 74 caps, according to U.S. Soccer.
It is worth noting that Megan Rapinoe reached a significant milestone in this match, earning her 200th cap for the national team. Rapinoe’s contribution to the team’s success over the years cannot be overstated, and her achievement was celebrated by fans and teammates alike.
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Overall, the United States women’s national team showcased their dominance in their opening World Cup match against Vietnam. With a convincing 3-0 victory and standout performances from players like Sophia Smith and Lindsey Horan, the team has set a strong foundation for their campaign. As the tournament progresses, fans can expect more thrilling moments and exceptional displays of skill from this talented group of athletes.
(Photo: John Hefti / USA Today)