© Amber Searls-Imagn Images
Washington, D.C. — It was a friendly in name only, as the United States women’s national team toppled regional rivals Canada 3-0 in the nation’s capital. The USWNT extends its clean sheet record to five consecutive matches and has out-scored its four opponents 18-0 since May 31.
Though this fixture has produced thrillingly classic matches, Wednesday’s game was a straightforwardly one-sided affair. It served up a cold, hard look at the wide chasm of class which currently separates both teams.
The United States capitalized on its set piece opportunities in the first half, and never looked back. Rose Lavelle continues to revel in her national team return by facilitating both goals with outstanding set piece deliveries. Sam Coffey opened the scoring after 17 minutes and netted her second goal in as many starts off Lavelle free kick. Coffey’s midfield pivot partner Claire Hutton scored the first senior goal of her career — either internationally or at the club level — with a ferocious header nine minutes later. At the stroke of full time, Yazmeen Ryan stretched the lead to three with her second consecutive goal in a USWNT shirt.
With no major tournament on the horizon for another two summers, the occasion served up a “big match” atmosphere. A total of 19,215 spectators sold out Audi Field and were in full voice from minute one to 90. The occasion’s momentous feel was perhaps a new encounter for the large contingency of young players on both teams. Red, white and blue fireworks illuminated the pastel sky throughout.
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