In front of a record-breaking crowd at Wembley Stadium, the United States Women’s National Team (USWNT) fought to a hard-earned 0-0 draw against England’s Lionesses. The match, a highly-anticipated clash between two of the world’s top-ranked teams, lived up to its billing as a tactical battle with moments of individual brilliance.
Ryan and Girma Shine in Scoreless Stalemate
Despite missing key attackers like Mallory Swanson, Trinity Rodman, and Sophia Smith, the USWNT managed to control much of the game, thanks in large part to the performances of two rising stars: Yazmeen Ryan and Naomi Girma.
Ryan, who came on as a halftime substitute, immediately made her presence felt. The 23-year-old forward injected creativity and dynamism into the U.S. attack, nearly setting up a goal that was ruled offside and delivering a sumptuous cross that almost led to another.
Yazmeen Ryan changed the game when she came on. Her energy, skill, and vision gave the U.S. a new dimension going forward.
A source close to the USWNT
At the other end of the pitch, Girma put in a commanding shift at center-back. The 22-year-old defender, who has quickly established herself as a mainstay in the U.S. backline, snuffed out England’s attacking threats with her positioning, anticipation, and recovery speed.
Hayes’ Tactical Approach Pays Dividends
USWNT head coach Emma Hayes made the bold decision to field an experienced defense and midfield, allowing her young forwards more freedom to express themselves. The move paid off, as the likes of Emily Fox, Emily Sonnett, Sam Coffey, and Lindsey Horan provided a stable platform for the attack to build upon.
- Hayes opted for experience in defense and midfield
- The decision allowed young forwards to play with more freedom
- Midfield trio of Coffey, Horan, and Lavelle controlled the game
Wembley Atmosphere Electrifies Players
The match, attended by over 70,000 fans, was a testament to the growing popularity of women’s football. The iconic Wembley Stadium provided a fitting stage for the occasion, with both sets of players rising to the challenge in front of the passionate crowd.
Playing at Wembley is always special, but tonight was on another level. The atmosphere was electric, and you could see how much it meant to the players on both teams.
An anonymous source familiar with the England setup
Looking Ahead: Netherlands Friendly and Olympic Preparations
The draw against England caps off a successful year for the USWNT, who claimed the Olympic gold medal in 2024. With one more friendly against the Netherlands on the horizon, Hayes will be looking to fine-tune her squad as they build towards defending their title at the 2028 Games.
The emergence of young talents like Ryan and Girma, coupled with the experience of established stars, bodes well for the USWNT’s future. As they continue to grow under Hayes’ leadership, the team will be aiming to maintain their status as the world’s premier women’s football nation.
