Spain Stuns USWNT with Early Strikes in High-Stakes Friendly

In a heavyweight friendly that set the stage for a potential World Cup showdown, Spain took the lead early and never looked back, claiming a decisive 2-0 victory over the USWNT in Washington, DC. With two goals in the first 14 minutes, the reigning champions showcased their dominance and exposed gaps in the US midfield and defense. As both teams prepare for next year’s Women’s World Cup in Brazil, they come into these friendlies with some key players sidelined due to injuries. Spain leads FIFA’s rankings and are the defending champions, while the US, ranked second, recently won gold at the Paris Olympics. However, the Americans still need to qualify for the World Cup through a regional tournament starting next month. Despite missing several key players, the matchup between these two football powerhouses was eagerly anticipated. In the first of their two friendlies, Spain wasted no time, striking first with a stunning 20-yard shot by Patri Guijarro just three minutes in. The US struggled to regain composure after a turnover, allowing Spain to capitalize on the opportunity. Less than 15 minutes later, Spain doubled their lead. Salma Paralluelo found space on the left, sending a perfect cross to an unmarked Eva Navarro, who finished effortlessly. After conceding twice, the US huddled together in the box, reflecting on their defensive errors. "You can’t afford to go 2-0 down against the best team in the world, especially the way we conceded those goals," said US coach Emma Hayes. "That’s the learning." The Americans looked disjointed in the first half, with a series of misplaced passes and missed connections. Rose Lavelle attempted to spark a break with a pass to forwards Sophia Wilson and Alyssa Thompson, but both players misjudged their runs, leading to frustration from the home crowd. Wilson came close to scoring, but her efforts either hit the post or went wide. After halftime, the US showed improved organization and intensity, outshooting Spain 13-6. They dominated possession and kept Spain without a shot on target in the second half. In the 53rd minute, Wilson thought she had scored, but her effort was ruled offside after a video review. The US earned a penalty in the 67th minute when Wilson was fouled in the box. Surprisingly, 19-year-old Lily Yohannes stepped up to take the spot-kick, despite having no penalty experience at the club level. Unfortunately for the US, her attempt was saved by Adriana Nanclares, leaving the Americans still searching for a goal. The second half saw the return of Mallory Swanson and Ashley Sanchez, with Swanson making her first appearance in 710 days following maternity leave. Despite some promising plays, including a near goal from Sanchez, the US couldn't find the back of the net. As the match wound down, Spain ramped up their physical play, committing numerous fouls and ultimately finishing with ten players after Athenea del Castillo received a red card for a hair pull. The USWNT now heads into their rematch on Tuesday in Chester, Pennsylvania, looking to shake off their finishing woes. They haven’t gone two consecutive games without scoring since the 2023 World Cup, and with the clock ticking down to the tournament, the urgency to find their rhythm is palpable.