The United States women’s team defeated Canada 1-0 to start the 2021 SheBelieves Cup. The winning goal of the game was given by Rose Lavelle in the 79th minute after finishing the game off the bench in the second half.
A goalless first half between the two CONCACAF rivals provided some mixed results, as Canada managed to play outside the pressure of the USA. An early injury by Canadian goalkeeper Kailen Sheridan forced a substitution in the 10th minute, with Steph Labbé showing a solid net performance to keep the game goalless in the first half, despite the USA having managed more shots on goal.
The USWNT failed to find the advantage in the first 45 minutes, despite applying pressure and a strong attack game in the first half led by Crystal Dunn and Lynn Williams. While Canada successfully played under pressure under several waves of attack, they recorded only one shot at the target in the first half, despite spending a lot of time in dangerous spaces.
The second half provided a more open game between the two sides, as the USWNT seemed to play more urgently on the ball. Canada tried to take advantage of the open space, getting more looks in the final third, registering two more kicks on the target and forcing goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher to get out of its line and make a great defense.
A trio of offensive substitutions would stir the game with Christen Press, Alex Morgan and Lavelle replacing in the 64th minute. The impact was immediate, as the trio became involved in the attack, and the turnaround came after almost 80 minutes, when Lindsey Horan assisted in Lavelle’s winning goal.
With the victory, the USWNT is in second place, behind Brazil in the goal difference. The two teams will face off on Sunday in what will likely be a battle for first place in the tournament standings.
USWNT 1, Canada 0
⚽ USA: Rose Lavelle (79 ‘)