Mexico defeats USWNT in W Gold Cup for historic result

The Mexico Women’s National Team picked up a monumental win over the USWNT to round out the group stage in the 2024 W Gold Cup. The Americans had already clinched a spot in the knockout stage, which means it did not have much to play for. However, a dominant performance ensured La Tri finished as group winners. More significantly, this was Mexico’s second time defeating the United States Women’s National Team. This was the 43rd time the USWNT has played Mexico. The Americans lead the series with 40 wins and a draw, but this is a turning point for Mexican women’s soccer.

Moreover, this is not a result where the USWNT can cast the 2-0 loss to the side. Interim head coach Twila Kilgore fielded a strong side full of players with ample experience in tournament play. However, it was Mexico that dominated and led most of the chances. Granted, the first half saw Mexico welcome the USWNT’s possession-based approach. A stout defense prevented the Americans from any strong chances. Right-back Emily Fox forced a save out of Esthefanny Barreras just after the half-hour mark, but that was as close as the United States came.

A historic result for Mexico women

Not long after, Mexico opened the scoring via Jacqueline Ovalle. Poor defending from the USWNT allowed Ovalle to win the ball in the final third. Faced one-on-one against USWNT goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher, Ovalle pulled the ball back to her left foot and into the back of Naeher’s net. This was the first time Mexico held a lead against the United States since the last time, and the only time, it defeated the Americans. That was in November 2010 during Women’s World Cup qualifying.

A raucous crowd that largely supported Mexico was treated to a perfect ending in stoppage time of the second half. The USWNT was exposed at the back as it pushed for an equalizer. Mayra Pelayo was born in California, played for the Florida Gators in college and was in the USWNT youth system. She delivered the final blow…

Source link : https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/mexico-defeats-uswnt-in-w-gold-cup-for-historic-result-20240227-WST-491788.html

Author : Kyle Fansler

Publish date : 2024-02-27 15:48:45

Copyright for syndicated content belongs to the linked Source.