In an impressive display, the U.S. national team secured a 3-0 victory over Canada in a friendly match on Wednesday, marking their fifth consecutive win. The highlight of the match was 19-year-old midfielder Claire Hutton, who netted her first international goal.
Hutton capitalized on a perfect corner kick from Rose Lavelle, heading the ball into the net to extend the U.S. lead to 2-0 in the 36th minute. “Set pieces are something we focus on. It’s what we talk about,” said Hutton. She emphasized the importance of set pieces at the international level, noting that they often set teams apart in major tournaments.
The U.S. team has been in formidable form, boasting a remarkable scoreline of 18-0 over their last five friendlies following a narrow 2-1 defeat to Brazil earlier in April. Hutton’s goal came during her sixth appearance for the national team, and she expressed her pride in representing the U.S. jersey.
“It’s just amazing. To wear this jersey, wear this badge, it weighs a lot. I know the history behind it,” Hutton stated. Playing for the Kansas City Current, she ached for more opportunities to contribute to the team’s success.
Head coach Emma Hayes utilized this match as an opportunity to provide rest to many of her Europe-based players during a challenging stretch of games. This tactical decision allowed for less experienced talents like Hutton to take the field.
“As I’ve said many times, I’m all about improving the whole ecosystem. I think more opportunities for more players with the national team will improve the NWSL,” Hayes commented.
The Americans opened the scoring in the 17th minute when Lavelle delivered a free kick from near the left sideline. The Canadian defense struggled to clear the ball, allowing Avery Patterson and Sam Coffey to battle for possession just outside the goal. Coffey ultimately found the back of the net, earning credit for the goal, despite Patterson’s insistence that she set the play up perfectly.
Defensively, Claudia Dickey kept a clean sheet, making crucial saves, including one against Canada’s Jordyn Huitema shortly after the U.S. scored their first goal. Despite the scoreboard, the Americans generated numerous opportunities, demonstrating their offensive prowess throughout the match.
On the other hand, Canadian coach Casey Stoney condemned her team’s performance as “inexcusable,” citing issues related to fitness, commitment, and desire. She noted a lack of intensity in losing aerial challenges and failed attempts to pressure the ball, which does not reflect the character of her team.
Fans at the match celebrated Lavelle’s impactful presence, giving her a standing ovation when she was subbed out midway through the second half. Tara McKeown, who plays for the Washington Spirit, made a notable impact after coming on as a substitute, assisting on Yazmeen Ryan’s goal in the 89th minute to solidify the American triumph.
The victory against Canada not only reinforces the U.S. national team’s form but also highlights the potential of emerging players like Claire Hutton in the quest for success on the international stage.
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