USWNT's 7th Shutout: 3-0 Win vs. China PR in Southern Florida

USWNT's 7th Shutout: 3-0 Win vs. China PR in Southern Florida

Sophia Smith of Team United States during the USWNT v China PR, international friendly game, at DRV PNK Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on December 2, 2023.(Image-Getty)

 On a humid evening in southern Florida, the U.S. Women's National Team delivered a commanding 3-0 victory against China PR. Goals from Sophia Smith, captain Lindsey Horan, and Trinity Rodman, coupled with goalkeeper Casey Murphy's stellar performance and a resolute U.S. defense, restricted China to just two shots. This triumph marked the USA's seventh consecutive shutout.

Right from the kick-off, the USWNT took control against one of its most frequent opponents in history. With the return of seasoned players Rose Lavelle and Abby Dahlkemper to the starting lineup, it took only eight minutes for the USA to breach the Chinese defense. NWSL Defender of the Year Naomi Girma's long pass found Rodman on the left wing, who skillfully beat her marker and delivered a precise cross for Smith to convert.

Smith had opportunities for two more goals, but China's goalkeeper Xu Huan thwarted her attempts, showcasing her prowess just after the 10-minute mark. Despite dominating the first half with 10 shots (five on goal) and over 60% possession, the USA entered halftime with only Smith's early goal giving them a 1-0 lead.

In the second half, U.S. interim head coach Twila Kilgore made strategic substitutions, bringing on Mia Fishel and Jaedyn Shaw. Shaw's positioning at the back post played a crucial role in extending the lead to 2-0 in the 52nd minute, as a cross intended for her evaded everyone and found the net.

As the match progressed, Kilgore continued to tap into the team's depth, introducing young talents Jenna Nighswonger, Sam Coffey, and Olivia Moultrie. Midge Purce, who came on in the second half, played a pivotal role in the build-up to the USA's third goal. Purce's effort to beat her defender and provide a low cross allowed Rodman to secure a comfortable tap-in for the 3-0 lead in the 77th minute, solidifying the final scoreline.

With this victory, the USA boasts a record of 13 wins, 4 draws, and 0 losses in 2023. The team aims to maintain this impressive record in its final 2023 schedule, concluding with another international friendly against China PR on December 5.

The goal-scoring rundown highlights the contributions of Sophia Smith, Lindsey Horan, and Trinity Rodman at the 8th, 52nd, and 77th minutes, respectively. The match also witnessed notable performances, such as the return of Abby Dahlkemper after 599 days, and the international debuts of Jenna Nighswonger and Olivia Moultrie. The overall statistical dominance, with a 20-2 shot advantage for the USA, emphasizes the team's prowess.

In summary, the U.S. Women's National Team showcased a dominant performance against China PR, underscoring the depth of talent and the team's commitment to maintaining an undefeated record in 2023.