The future looks bright for the U.S. Women’s National Team. In their first match since winning Olympic gold in Paris, the USWNT defeated Iceland 3-1 thanks to a stunning goal by rising star Alyssa Thompson. The 19-year-old forward smashed home her first career goal for the senior national team in the 39th minute, giving fans a glimpse of the squad’s exciting potential in this new era.
“This Is Surreal” – Thompson Savors Dream Debut
Thompson’s goal was a thing of beauty. Receiving the ball on the left side of the box, she cut inside onto her right foot and unleashed an unstoppable shot that crashed in off the underside of the crossbar. The California native was understandably thrilled to open her account for the USWNT on the victory tour.
“Coming onto the field and wearing this jersey in the beginning, I was like, ‘this is surreal,'” Thompson said at halftime. “I just — I can’t describe how I feel. I’m so happy.”
It was a debut to remember for Thompson, the lone starter who didn’t feature at the Olympics. Her goal capped off a promising first half for the USWNT, though Iceland grew into the game and equalized through Selma Magnusdottir early in the second half. But the home side’s quality shone through in the end.
Super-Subs Shaw And Smith Seal The Win
With Iceland threatening to spoil the party, USWNT head coach Emma Hayes called for reinforcements off the bench. First came forward Jaedyn Shaw in the 67th minute, returning from injury to take over the playmaking role from captain Lindsey Horan. Ten minutes later, Sophia Smith made her entrance as she continues to regain fitness after an ankle issue.
The substitutes made an immediate impact. Shaw poked home the go-ahead goal in the 85th minute after slipping behind Iceland’s defense, before Smith sealed the result with a clinical volley just three minutes later. It was a satisfying end to a hard-fought win for the world #1 ranked USWNT.
New Faces, Same Expectations For USWNT
The comfortable scoreline somewhat masked what was a disjointed performance at times by the USWNT’s standards. Iceland, ranked 13th in the world, actually outshot the Americans in the first half as the hosts struggled to fully impose themselves despite dominating possession.
But Coach Hayes won’t be too concerned. The victory tour is all about celebrating the team’s Olympic triumph while beginning to integrate the next generation of talent. With the likes of Thompson, Shaw and Smith coming through, the USWNT looks well-equipped to maintain its place at the summit of international women’s soccer.
The average age of the starting XI was nearly 29, while defender Emily Sonnett earned her 100th cap – becoming the 45th USWNT player to reach that milestone. But alongside the stalwarts of Morgan, Rapinoe, and Lloyd, these young guns offered glimpses of a tantalizing future. Now, the key will be striking the balance between old and new.
Thompson Leads New Generation Into Post-Olympics Era
While she may not want the pressure of comparisons, it’s hard not to see shades of a young Alex Morgan or Christen Press in Alyssa Thompson. Her blend of pace, skill, and finishing ability makes her a nightmare for opposing defenses. Having only just turned 19, her potential is immense.
Thompson first burst onto the scene at the 2023 World Cup, becoming the youngest USWNT player since 1999 to make a World Cup roster. Though her minutes were limited in Australia and New Zealand, she showed flashes of brilliance when called upon. Now, she looks primed for a starring role.
Of course, one goal does not make a career. Thompson still has much to learn and many challenges ahead of her. She’ll face increased attention from defenses and media, and will need to prove she can perform consistently at the highest level. But if this debut is any indication, the USWNT have a special talent on their hands.
The Future Is Bright For The Stars And Stripes
As attention slowly begins to turn toward the 2027 World Cup, the USWNT finds itself in an enviable position. The team’s veteran core, led by names like Horan, Lavelle and Ertz, is still performing at an elite level. They form the bridge to an exciting crop of youngsters headlined by Thompson, Smith, and Shaw.
Competition for places will be fierce in the coming years. Talents like Trinity Rodman, Ashley Sanchez, Mallory Swanson, and Mia Fishel are also vying to be part of the new era. It’s a good problem for Coach Hayes to have as she looks to keep the USWNT on top.
The victory tour rolls on with two more matches against Iceland and Argentina. For the fresh faces in the squad, it’s an opportunity to gain valuable experience and stake their claim. And if Alyssa Thompson’s spectacular first goal is a sign of things to come, USWNT fans have a lot to look forward to.
