In an exhibition match against South Korea, sixteen-year-old Lily Yohannes made a remarkable debut for the United States Women’s National Team, scoring a goal and contributing to the team’s 3-0 victory. This impressive performance not only demonstrates Yohannes’ skill and potential but also speaks to the depth of talent within the national team.
The match against South Korea marked the second game under the leadership of coach Emma Hayes, who was appointed last November. Hayes, who previously coached in Europe with Chelsea, has already begun to implement significant changes within the team. Her strategic decisions, including making sweeping changes to the starting lineup, have clearly paid off, as evidenced by the team’s dominant performance on the field.
Crystal Dunn and Sophia Smith were among the goal scorers for the U.S., showcasing their offensive prowess and contributing to the team’s victory. Dunn, in particular, demonstrated her versatility by scoring her first goal at forward since 2017. Additionally, Casey Murphy’s crucial save during the match highlighted the team’s strong defensive presence. With standout performances from key players like Dunn, Smith, Yohannes, and Murphy, the U.S. team is poised for success in future matches and competitions.
As the U.S. prepares to compete in the upcoming Olympics, coach Emma Hayes faces the task of selecting an 18-player roster for the national team. The team’s opening match against Zambia on July 25 will test their readiness and capabilities on the international stage. With the impressive talent and depth within the team, the U.S. is well-positioned to make a strong showing at the Olympics.
With two more matches scheduled before departing for France, the United States Women’s National Team will continue to fine-tune their strategies and gameplay. The upcoming matches against Mexico and Costa Rica will provide valuable opportunities for the team to build chemistry, work on tactics, and maintain their winning momentum. As the team progresses through their preparations, fans can expect to see even more exciting performances and achievements from this talented group of players.