Record-Breaking Victory: Sophia Smith's Brilliant Brace Seals Triumph for USA against Vietnam in Women's World Cup
Sophia Smith's double in the first half propelled the defending champions, USA, to a convincing 3-0 victory over tournament newcomers Vietnam, as they began their Women's World Cup campaign in style
Sophia Smith netted two goals in the first half, helping the USA, the reigning champions, start their Women's World Cup campaign on a strong note with a commanding 3-0 victory against debutants Vietnam. Lindsey Horan sealed the victory by scoring a third goal for the favorites, who are aiming to create history by winning their third consecutive title in this year's tournament.
Vietnam was compared to Thailand, whom the Americans defeated 13-0 in their 2019 World Cup opener. However, Vietnam displayed resilience and managed to keep the game more competitive than anticipated. Goalkeeper Tran Thi Kim Thanh played a key role by denying Alex Morgan's penalty in the first half. Although Morgan suffered a knock to her calf while attempting to follow up the rebound, she swiftly recovered. This incident marked only her second penalty miss for the United States.
Smith, who is one of 14 Americans participating in their inaugural World Cup, demonstrated her exceptional abilities by scoring two goals in the first half, further validating her prestigious titles as the Player of the Year and the National Women's Soccer League MVP of the nation in the previous year.
Image:
Smith scores her first goal against Vietnam
Smith found the back of the net in the 14th minute, courtesy of a pass from captain Horan. An exuberant celebration followed the goal, with Smith and Horan executing a meticulously coordinated handshake. Just before halftime, Smith once again found the target, extending the lead to 2-0 heading into the break.
Seeking rejuvenation after a disheartening bronze medal finish at the Tokyo Olympics, the USA team revitalized its roster with the infusion of young talents such as Smith and Trinity Rodman. Meanwhile, among the seasoned players, Megan Rapinoe, aged 38, marked her 200th international appearance in the match against Vietnam.
Rapinoe, the top scorer in the France World Cup final and the recipient of the tournament's best player award, was not in the starting lineup. Prior to the team's departure for New Zealand, she declared that this would mark her final World Cup appearance and that she would retire from her professional team at the conclusion of the season.
Image:
Lindsey Horan, Megan Rapinoe and Smith top, celebrate after Horan scored their third goal during the second half
Rapinoe and midfielder Rose Lavelle, who had been hindered by injuries before the tournament, entered the game as substitutes in the 63rd minute. Rapinoe showcased her vibrant blue hair. Additionally, 18-year-old Alyssa Thompson, the team's youngest player, was also brought in as a substitute during the second half.
Horan netted the ball into an empty goal after receiving a pass from Smith, who was under pressure from the goalkeeper but skillfully returned the ball to her. Horan, who recently got engaged, celebrated by kissing her ring.
What is the schedule?
The group stage for the tournament has commenced and will continue for a duration of two weeks, concluding on August 3. The top performers from each group, including the winners and runners-up, will advance to the round of 16, scheduled to take place from August 5 to August 8.The quarter-final matches are set to take place in Wellington, Auckland, Brisbane, and Sydney on August 11 and 12. Following these matches, the first semi-final will be held in Auckland on August 15, while the second semi-final will be played at the Accor Stadium in Sydney on August 16. The final match will also take place at the Accor Stadium on August 20.
A third-place play-off will be played the day before the final on August 19 in Brisbane.
