SheBelieves Cup: USWNT vs Canada

Photography by Morgan Tencza.

There were many storylines going into this opening SheBelieves Cup match for the USWNT and Canada. None was bigger than the ongoing labor dispute between the Canadian NT and its federation, which left many wondering last week if this match would even be played at all. Canadian players had originally intended to skip the SheBelieves Cup altogether, but threats of litigation from the federation forced them to take the field last night. This bitter situation, along with both teams rightfully being the best in the continent, added a layer of extra anticipation ahead of the opening whistle at Exploria Stadium.

The USWNT and Canadian players came out of the tunnel wearing both purple tape, in the name of gender equality, and white tape displaying the message, ‘Defend Trans Joy.’ It was a touching moment to see both sides united amid the ongoing protest, especially after the USWNT players having gone through their own fight for equal pay in recent years.

There was, though, reason to celebrate before kick-off. After all, it was a historic night for legendary forward Alex Morgan, who would be honored for making her 200th appearance for the USWNT back in November. It’s a massive milestone for one of the greatest players in women’s soccer history, and she was fittingly honored before the match.

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As soon as the whistle blew, the USWNT asserted its dominance early, with the squad understandably looking the most poised and comfortable out on the field.

It only took seven minutes for Mallory Swanson to find the back of the net with a solid volley past Canada’s Keilan Sheridan. Before the end of the half, Swanson would capitalize on a defensive mistake to make it 2-0 at half. With the brace, Swanson now tallies five goals in her first three games for the US in 2023.

The USWNT would go on to manage the score well and cruise to a solid opening-night victory. Up next, they’ll face Japan in Nashville for another important test ahead of the World Cup.

With all four teams in the tournament having qualified for Australia/New Zealand 2023, this SheBelieves Cup promises to deliver an exciting spectacle ahead of this summer.