Alyssa Thompson’s late goal lifted the United States women’s national team to a 1-0 victory over Colombia at Sports Illustrated Stadium, securing their eighth SheBelieves Cup title.
Thompson’s Decisive Strike
Thompson said she wants to improve her decision-making in the final third. She combined with Jaedyn Shaw and scored with a right-footed shot from outside the box. The ball went in off the underside of the crossbar, beyond the reach of Colombia goalkeeper Katherine Tapia.
Lindsey Heaps described the goal as an “absolute banger,” adding, “That’s her bread and butter.” Thompson celebrated with a “scuba dance” from TikTok.
Hayes’ Assessment of the Match
Emma Hayes called the first 45 minutes “sluggish” and “average.” Hayes subbed off Naomi Girma at halftime due to calf tightness. She said it was just a precaution.
Tara Rudd replaced Girma. Hayes made a quadruple change at the hour mark, bringing on Heaps, Shaw, Olivia Moultrie and Emma Sears. The pace of play increased.
Team’s Versatility and Depth
Hayes said she was pleased with her team’s ability to win in different ways throughout this tournament after earlier victories over Argentina and Canada.
“I think we’ve shown how to win when we’re not our best, I think we’ve shown the versatility, I think we’ve shown the depth, I think we’ve shown maturity and as a coach, I’m happy about those things,” she said.
Hayes said the difference in the game was the substitutes, but Thompson ultimately delivered the winner. Hayes said it’s been a tremendous year for Alyssa for both club and country. The consistency in her play is the standout.
The United States is 12-0-2 all-time against Colombia.