photo: commons.wikimedia.org
The United States women's national team turned in a record-setting performance in their 2019 World Cup opener, announcing to all the title still goes through them.
Four years ago, the USWNT started off the World Cup by struggling to beat Australia 3-1. The result still earned points -- and the Americans went on to win the 2015 cup -- but there was doubt seeded to just how prepared the team was to vie for the cup.
There should be no such questions after their first game in 2019.
Working cohesively, with a free-wheeling and precise attack, the offense practically lived in Thailand's defensive third, tallying 39 shots (21 on goal) in a 13-0 blistering victory on Tuesday.
Alex Morgan delivered a World Cup record-tying five goals as the United States scored early and did not let up until the final whistle. Morgan's tally tied her with fellow American Michelle Akers, who scored five goals against Chinese Taipei back in 1991.
Starting midfielders Rose Lavelle and Sam Mewis each scored two goals, while fellow starters Megan Rapinoe and Linsey Horan each scored one. Carli Lloyd and Mallory Pugh each scored a goal off of the bench.
Thailand, playing in only their second World Cup, was on their heels from the get go. Morgan got things started in the 12th-minute with a perfectly placed header off of a nice cross from Kelly O'Hara.
Despite their constant pressure, the Americans were only up 3-0 at the break.
A flurry of goals -- four to be exact -- in a seven-minute span put the USWNT up 7-0. Twice more in the half the Americans would score three goals in seven-minutes span to help deliver the final score.
Not only did Morgan tie the record for goals scored in a single game, the team now has the most goals in a game -- in men's or women's World Cup action. With it, the score also provided the largest margin of victory.
Thailand, even with the United States playing only three on the back line for much of the game, failed to pose much of a threat. They managed two weak shots on goal, both of which were easily saved.
A bright spot -- despite the 13-goal output -- was Thailand keeper Sukanya Chor Charoenying, who made eight saves, many of which would have made highlight reels in any other game.
Up next for the USWNT is Chile, who lost to Sweden in a weather delayed affair. The game is on Sunday (6/16) at noon (EST).
First-time teams
The first games of all six groups are complete. Out of the 24 countries represented, four are making their World Cup debuts. All four showed in their first match that they belong, albeit with mixed results and all accruing a loss.
South Africa held a 1-0 lead into the 69th-minute of their opening match against Spain. One questionable call later, followed by a penalty kick goal, opened the flood gates for Spain, who ultimately won 3-1.
The Reggae Girlz out of Jamaica did some nice things in their debut but were shutout by Brazil, 3-0. All three of Brazil's goals were scored by Cristiane.
On Sunday, Scotland met up with rival England. The Scots chose a defensive approach, one that nearly worked out in a 2-1 defeat at the hands of The Lionesses.
And finally, in Group F, Chile was battling Sweden to a 0-0 tie when the game was delayed thanks to weather in the 72nd-minute. Once play resumed, Sweden scored two late goals to pick up a 2-0 victory.
Each of these countries will be guaranteed at least two more matches in the 2019 World Cup and a chance to notch a point. Here is a schedule of their next game:
- South Africa vs China, 6/13 - 3 pm EST
- Japan vs Scotland, 6/14 - 9 am EST
- Jamaica vs Italy, 6/14 - noon EST
- USA vs Chile, 6/16 - noon EST
Stay up to date with World Cup action on this blog or by following me on Twitter.
Comments