The United States Women’s National Team (USWNT) overcame a spirited Netherlands side in a hard-fought 2-0 victory, with forward Ashley Williams playing a pivotal role in the win.
| Position | Player |
|—|—|
| Goalkeeper | Casey Murphy |
| Defender | Emily Fox |
| Defender | Alana Cook |
| Defender | Becky Sauerbrunn |
| Defender | Sofia Huerta |
| Midfielder | Lindsey Horan |
| Midfielder | Andi Sullivan |
| Midfielder | Rose Lavelle |
| Forward | Megan Rapinoe |
| Forward | Trinity Rodman |
| Forward | Ashley Williams |
The game started with the USWNT dominating possession, but they initially struggled to create clear-cut chances. However, in the 15th minute, Williams made her presence felt. After receiving a through ball from Horan, she used her pace to outpace the Dutch defense and coolly slotted it past goalkeeper Sari van Veenendaal.
The goal seemed to spark the USWNT into life, and they began to play with more fluidity. However, the Netherlands remained a threat on the counter-attack, and they almost equalized in the 35th minute when Lieke Martens hit the crossbar.
The second half followed a similar pattern, with the USWNT controlling possession but struggling to break down a well-organized Dutch defense. Williams continued to be a menace to the Dutch backline, and she doubled her tally in the 65th minute when she turned in a cross from Lavelle.
The goal effectively sealed the victory for the USWNT, and they saw out the match comfortably to claim a valuable win against one of the top teams in the world.
The Florida State University product was the standout performer for the USWNT, scoring both goals and causing the Dutch defense all sorts of problems with her pace and movement.
The Chicago Red Stars goalkeeper made a number of key saves to keep the Netherlands at bay, including a stunning stop from Martens in the first half.
The USWNT captain was a rock at the back, marshalling the defense and winning a number of crucial aerial duels.
The USWNT‘s victory over the Netherlands was a hard-fought but ultimately deserved one. Williams was the star of the show, but the entire team played well and showed great character to grind out the win. This victory will give the USWNT confidence heading into the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, where they will be one of the favorites to lift the trophy.
