Lynn Williams and Alyssa Naeher Shine as USWNT Edges Netherlands 2-1 in Thrilling Finale
In a match that had everything from drama to history, the United States Women’s National Team (USWNT) closed out 2024 with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over the Netherlands in The Hague on Tuesday. The game was a rollercoaster of emotions, capped by a clutch goal from Lynn Williams and a heroic performance by retiring goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher.
Williams Delivers the Decisive Blow
It was the 71st minute when Williams, who had entered the match at the start of the second half, made her mark. Timing her run to perfection, she connected with a pinpoint cross from Yazmeen Ryan, slotting the ball into the back of the net to break a 1-1 deadlock. The goal, her 21st in international play, was a moment of brilliance that came just two minutes after Naeher made a stunning save with her right leg to deny Daniëlle van de Donk.
Naeher’s Farewell Performance
Speaking of Naeher, the veteran goalkeeper was nothing short of sensational in her final appearance for the USWNT. The 36-year-old, wearing the captain’s armband for her 115th cap, made six crucial saves to keep the Americans in the game. Her performance was a fitting farewell for a player who has been a cornerstone of the team for a decade. Naeher, a two-time World Cup champion (2015 and 2019) and a 2024 Olympic gold medalist, will forever be remembered for her shutout against the Netherlands in the 2019 Women’s World Cup final.
Outplayed but Not Outdone
Let’s be honest: the U.S. had no business being tied 1-1 at halftime. The Dutch dominated the first half, holding a staggering 62% of possession and outshooting the Americans 14-1, including a 3-1 edge in shots on target. In fact, the 14 shots were the most the U.S. has faced in a half since France unleashed the same number during the second half of the 2019 World Cup quarterfinal.
Despite the lopsided stats, the U.S. found a way to stay in the game. The Netherlands struck first in the 15th minute when 18-year-old central defender Veerle Buurman scored her first international goal off a corner kick from Jill Roord. But in a bizarre twist, Buurman inadvertently leveled the score for the U.S. in the 44th minute when a long free kick from Tierna Davidson deflected off the back of her head and into her own net.
Emma Hayes’ Golden Touch
Under the guidance of head coach Emma Hayes, the USWNT has been nearly unstoppable. Since taking the reins in June, Hayes has led the team to a 13-0-2 record, including a gold medal victory at the Paris Olympics. Tuesday’s win extended the team’s unbeaten streak to 20 matches, capping off a stellar 18-1-4 record for 2024.
Key Takeaways from the Match
- Lynn Williams: Her game-winning goal showcased her knack for stepping up in big moments.
- Alyssa Naeher: A legendary career ends on a high note with a clutch performance.
- Emma Hayes: The new coach has injected fresh energy and tactical brilliance into the squad.
- Resilience: Despite being outplayed for much of the match, the U.S. found a way to win.
Looking Ahead
As the USWNT turns the page on 2024, the future looks bright. With a mix of seasoned veterans and emerging stars, the team is poised to remain a global powerhouse. But for now, the spotlight belongs to Lynn Williams, Alyssa Naeher, and a squad that refuses to back down, no matter the odds.
Originally Written by: Associated Press
