The United States women’s team defeated Brazil, 2-0, in the second game of the selection for the SheBelieves Cup, on Sunday. The opening goal of the game was scored by Christen Press in the 11th minute, and Megan Rapinoe scored the second in the 88th minute.
An open first half between the two teams provided some exciting results, as the USWNT quickly tried to set the pace from the opening whistle. The reward came early, with Linsdey Horan giving a pass to Press and his shot from the edge of the area gave the USA an early lead. Take a look:
The Brazilians were able to create and generate their own attack, giving the United States defense problems from the right side of Marta and company. But they were unable to find a draw to close the first half, despite entering dangerous situations in the final third. Many of Brazil’s chances were closed thanks to Crystal Dunn’s recoveries.
The open game continued in the second half between the two sides, with the USWNT still providing a good connecting play between Dunn and Press. Brazil continued to play in pockets of space, as the two teams found more time in the respective half. The USWNT ended the game by beating Brazil 17-10.
Brazil’s attempts at the ball at the end of the game were difficult for the bottom line to cope with, although the defense seemed much more resolved as Julie Ertz sat more defensively to provide defensive coverage for the US
Carli Lloyd and Megan Rapinoe replaced as attack options for the USWNT in the 70th minute, and Rapinoe’s impact on the game came in the 88th minute to provide the safe goal for the USA and a tribute to teammates and new mothers, Ali Krieger and Ashlyn Harris.
Player ratings
Let’s take a look at some player ratings from the match with a rating of 1 being a red card kicked out early, while a 10 is a hat-trick level game.
Christen Press, USWNT: He provided the opening goal to give the team an early lead and had a steady off-ball move with a great bonding game with Williams and Dunn. Rating: 8
Crystal Dunn, USWNT: Excellent side defense game to get involved in the attack and provide defensive recoveries where defense coverage was lacking. Rreaching: 8.5
Emily Sonnett, USWNT: It was not a good day at the office abroad as the space she left was constantly exposed throughout the first half of Brazil. She did better at times during the second half. Rating: 5.5
Debinha, Brazil: The 2019 NWSL MVP had another strong game on the top row for Brazil, but the lack of gameplay from others around it represented some frustration. Rating: 7.5
Marta, Brazil: The iconic Brazilian midfielder generated tons of opportunities with the ball to try to strengthen the Brazilian attack, while playing lower to cover and defend when necessary: Rating: 7
Ludmila, Brazil: Her constant movement inside and outside the ball provided dangerous moments for Brazil in the final third, but the team was unable to put her in better positions throughout the match. Rating: 7