USWNT Dominates Argentina with a 3-0 Victory: Naomi Girma Shines
The U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT) capped off their October schedule with an impressive 3-0 victory over Argentina at Lynn Family Stadium in Louisville. The match was highlighted by a surprising yet stellar performance from defender Naomi Girma, who netted two goals, showcasing her versatility and skill on the field.
A Slow Start, But a Strong Finish
The match began with the USWNT struggling to penetrate Argentina’s low defensive block. The hosts appeared a bit sluggish, unable to find their rhythm in the opening minutes. However, by the half-hour mark, the tide began to turn. The USWNT started to assert their dominance, controlling possession and creating scoring opportunities.
The breakthrough came in the 37th minute when Girma scored her first international goal with a powerful header from close range. This moment not only marked a personal milestone for Girma but also shifted the momentum firmly in favor of the U.S. Just before halftime, the scoreline extended to 2-0 when Aldana Cometti inadvertently scored an own goal off a corner, a chance that was initiated by Girma’s relentless pressure.
Girma’s Historic Brace
The second half saw Girma continue her impressive performance, completing her brace just four minutes after the restart. Her second goal, also a header, came from a well-placed pass inside the penalty area by Alyssa Malonson, who was making her debut. This match marked a significant moment for Malonson, as she became one of three players to earn their first cap during this game, reflecting head coach Emma Hayes’ commitment to experimentation and player development.
Girma’s goals not only highlighted her attacking prowess but also underscored the effectiveness of set pieces, an area that Hayes has emphasized since taking charge. The USWNT has historically been strong in this aspect, and Girma’s performance is a testament to the team’s ongoing focus on set-piece strategies.
A New Era of Experimentation
Under Hayes, the USWNT has embraced a spirit of experimentation, providing opportunities for players who missed out on the Olympic roster. Alongside Girma and Malonson, Mandy Haught and Eva Gaetino also made their international debuts, showcasing the depth of talent within the squad. Meanwhile, Hailie Mace and Ashley Sanchez returned to the national team after lengthy absences, adding valuable experience to the lineup.
Sanchez, in particular, made a significant impact during the match, taking six of the USWNT’s 18 shots and generating an expected goals (xG) value of 0.31. Her performance is a promising sign for her future contributions, especially after a challenging year that included a trade from the Washington Spirit to the North Carolina Courage.
Set Pieces: A Key Focus
Girma’s brace is not an isolated incident; it reflects a broader trend under Hayes’ leadership. The emphasis on set pieces has been a key focus since she took over, and the results are evident. The USWNT worked with Gianni Vio, soccer’s first set-piece coach, during their gold medal run at the Paris Olympics, and the fruits of that labor continue to show. Girma and fellow defender Tierna Davidson, who also scored twice in a previous match under Hayes, are proving that center backs can be potent offensive threats during set pieces.
Sanchez’s Resurgence
Ashley Sanchez’s return to the national team is particularly noteworthy. Many fans felt she was underutilized during the 2023 Women’s World Cup, and her performance against Argentina suggests she is ready to reclaim her spot as a key player. With five goals and four assists in NWSL play this season, Sanchez is clearly making the most of her opportunities. Her ability to generate chances and create scoring opportunities will be crucial as the Courage head into the playoffs.
As the USWNT looks ahead to their upcoming matches against England and the Netherlands, the momentum from this victory, coupled with the emergence of new talents and the return of seasoned players, sets the stage for an exciting future. The team’s unbeaten streak under Hayes now stands at 15 games, a testament to the effective strategies and player development initiatives being implemented.