The United States Women`s National Team concluded their two-game series against Brazil on Tuesday in a friendly match. This game provided another opportunity for the USWNT to refine their tactics against a strong Brazilian team known for their technical skill and attacking prowess. The sold-out Pay Pal Park in San Jose, California, hosted the match. Brazil was aiming to recover from a 2-0 defeat against the USWNT from the previous Saturday.
Trinity Rodman made a successful comeback to the national team, scoring in her first game since the 2024 Olympic final. Rodman, a dynamic forward, had been a key offensive player during the Olympics but had been recovering from a back injury.
Coach Emma Hayes is expected to continue rotating players as she prepares the team for the 2027-28 cycle. In the previous match, two players earned their first senior caps: goalkeeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce, who secured a clean sheet, and Avery Patterson, who contributed as a late substitute.
Match Highlights
Previous Match Against Brazil: Before Saturday`s game, the teams last played in the 2024 Paris Olympics gold medal final. In the recent friendly, Rodman scored early, within the first six minutes. Despite Brazil initially setting the pace, the USWNT adjusted tactically. Lily Yohannes`s introduction in the second half proved impactful, leading to a penalty converted by captain Lindsey Heaps. Goalkeeper Tullis-Joyce played a crucial role, making six saves to keep Brazil from scoring.
USWNT Post-Match Comments
Coach Hayes emphasized the importance of improving ball retention, especially during transitions. She wants the team to be more effective after winning possession. Hayes acknowledged the team is still developing and needs to refine decision-making and execution, particularly in attack.
Hayes noted positive progress in creating scoring chances, highlighting an increase in expected goals (xG) compared to the Olympics. She believes the team could have scored more than two goals in the previous match, a sentiment she couldn`t express after the Olympic final.
In the first match, the USWNT`s expected goals (xG) were 2.72, double Brazil`s xG of 1.41.
Projected Lineups
With ongoing player evaluations under Coach Hayes, here`s a possible starting lineup:
USWNT Starting XI: Mandy McGlynn, Giselle Thompson, Emily Sams, Alana Cook, Avery Patterson; Korbin Albert, Lily Yohannes, Jaedyn Shaw; Yazmeen Ryan, Ashley Hatch, Michelle Cooper
Player Spotlight
Yazmeen Ryan (Forward): Yazmeen Ryan has quickly become a regular presence in the USWNT setup since her first senior call-up in October 2024. She has earned eight caps and provided two assists. Ryan`s versatility across attacking positions and her crossing ability make her a valuable asset.
Key Storyline
Goalkeeper Situation: While Phallon Tullis-Joyce recently earned her first cap, Mandy McGlynn is also in contention. With Alyssa Naeher`s retirement, the coaching staff is evaluating goalkeeping options. Jane Campbell has been the most experienced keeper in recent camps. Coach Hayes aims to narrow down the goalkeeper pool by summer.
Match Prediction
The second match offers both teams a chance to build on their previous encounter. Expect the USWNT to win again, but Brazil is likely to score this time.
Prediction: USWNT 2, Brazil 1
