USWNT Triumphs Over Australia in SheBelieves Cup, Setting Up a Thrilling Finale Against Japan
Feb 23, 2025, 08:25 PM ET
In a match that was as much about strategy as it was about skill, the United States Women’s National Team (USWNT) clinched a 2-1 victory over Australia at the SheBelieves Cup in Glendale, Arizona. This win sets the stage for an exciting final matchday showdown with Japan.
From the get-go, the USWNT looked in control, with Lynn Biyendolo capitalizing on the hard work of Emma Sears and the setup by Jaedyn Shaw to score a tap-in just 42 seconds into the match. This early goal set the tone for the rest of the game.
Despite a much-improved performance from the Matildas following their 4-0 defeat to Japan the previous week, the USWNT managed to keep the visitors at bay for most of the match. Australia’s goalkeeper, Teagan Micah, was kept busy throughout, but she couldn’t stop Michelle Cooper from scoring her debut goal in the 68th minute, putting the U.S. up 2-0. The goal came after a defense-splitting pass from Claire Hutton found Ally Sentnor, who stumbled but allowed Cooper to finish past Micah.
Australia did manage to make things interesting with a quick break, as a cross from Hayley Raso found the head of Michelle Heyman in the 80th minute. However, it wasn’t enough to alter the final outcome.
Signs of a Bright Future for USWNT
While one game doesn’t define a rebuild, Sunday’s win was a promising indication that Emma Hayes’ mission to usher in a new generation of players and create a squad with world-class depth is progressing well. Hayes has been using the SheBelieves Cup to bridge the gap between established players and those on the fringes of the squad.
In the opening game against Colombia, players like Sentnor, Catarina Macario, and Lily Yohannes caught the eye. On Sunday, with a completely new starting XI, it was Sears, Shaw, and Hutton, along with Alyssa and Gisele Thompson, who impressed.
Shaw and Sears were particularly electric in the first half, causing the Australian defense numerous problems, especially in the buildup to the opening goal. The battle between Shaw and Ellie Carpenter was a fascinating one, with Shaw often getting the better of the Lyon star.
The Thompson sisters continued to showcase their class, both individually and in combination, with some neat passing and a few chances on goal. Hutton, making her starting debut, delivered a standout performance, splitting the Australian defense for Cooper’s goal.
Lynn Biyendolo’s Understated Brilliance
Lynn Biyendolo may not always be the first-choice selection for the U.S., but she certainly makes her presence felt when given the opportunity. Her quick goal against Australia was almost poetic, given her close ties to the country through her Australian husband, Marley, and her two stints in the A-League Women.
During her time with the Western Sydney Wanderers in the 2019-20 season, Biyendolo played a crucial role in helping the team reach the finals for the first time in their history. Her subsequent short stint with Melbourne Victory was equally impressive, with three goals in four games contributing to back-to-back championships.
In Glendale, Biyendolo once again demonstrated her clinical nature, showcasing her intelligence and agility to put herself in the right positions to trouble defenders. Although she could have had a hat trick, with a goal ruled out for offside and some excellent saves by Micah, her performance was a reminder of her natural goal-scoring ability.
Never Miss the Start of a U.S.-Australia Game
There’s something about matches between the U.S. and Australia that makes them unmissable from the very first whistle. If you’re considering a pregame trip to the bathroom or concession stand, think again. Biyendolo’s goal, scored just 42 seconds into the match, was a perfect start for the Americans, evoking a sense of déjà vu.
- The last USWNT player to score in the opening minute of a game was Ashley Hatch against Australia in a 3-0 friendly victory in Sydney in 2021.
- Since 1999, the U.S. has scored in the first minute three times against Australia, with Danielle Fotopoulos also achieving this feat in 1999.
- The Americans have not scored more than one goal in the first minute against any other opponent in that time.
Teagan Micah Shines in Improved Matildas Performance
The Matildas’ opening game of the SheBelieves Cup was a disappointment, to say the least. A vastly experienced lineup had the chance to face an Asian rival ahead of the Asian Cup on home soil in 2026, but they suffered a 4-0 defeat.
Against the U.S., however, there was a marked improvement. Interim coach Tom Sermanni was able to test players like Winonah Heatley, Charlotte Grant, and Holly McNamara against one of the best teams in the world. The trio performed admirably, particularly Heatley.
In goal, Micah made a strong case for the Matildas’ No. 1 spot, competing fiercely with Mackenzie Arnold of the Portland Thorns. Micah’s series of stellar saves and calm reassurance were crucial, especially after her lengthy battle with concussion and other injuries. Her performance was a just reward for her perseverance.
While the result wasn’t favorable for the Australians, there were clear improvements in their performance. Sermanni and his team will hope to build on this as they prepare for a clash with Colombia on Wednesday in San Diego, continuing to navigate their coaching limbo.
Originally Written by: Marissa Lordanic
