USWNT vs China
In their final game of 2023, the USWNT were able to come back from behind and defeat China 2-1 at Toyota Stadium in Texas. It’s been a rollercoaster of a year — one that saw the team exit the World Cup in the Round of 16 — but they close out 2023 with a winning streak and a dash of hope for the next generation of players as they start to make their mark at the international level.
This set of two friendlies against China allowed USWNT interim coach Twila Kilgore to polish the young team that’s been assembled since the summer, as well as continue to introduce new players into the mix. Last week, they swiftly defeated China 3-0, and this week, Kilgore fielded an alternative team that included four players who’d had less than 20 caps. Still, with brand new faces and many players adapting to international play, the USWNT were able to defeat China 2-1.
The match started with the US on the front foot, but they could not open up the score. Right before the half, though, China was able to draw first blood thanks to a well-worked set piece. It was a cruel way to end the first half for the US, but they’d eventually find their way back into the match in the second half.
Sam Coffey leveled the score with a delicious curled effort following a set of rebounds inside the China penalty area in the 62nd minute. It was her first international goal and one that came at the perfect time to bring the US back into the game.
Just fifteen minutes later, Jaedyn Shaw would smash in the winner, scoring right in her hometown and giving the USWNT the much-coveted win.
Even though it was only a friendly, these types of matches have been invaluable when it comes to giving young, talented players their chance to shine on the international stage. With the Olympic games in Paris fast approaching, it’ll be necessary to continue nurturing these players ahead of one of the biggest competitions outside of the World Cup. For now, the USWNT should be satisfied with their winning streak during this rebuild process, and this final victory of the year should set up a positive mood going into a crucial 2024.
Photography by Ngai Ning
