Winners and Losers from the USWNT's 3-0 Win Over Argentina: A Resounding Response from Naomi Girma

Winners

Naomi Girma Naomi Girma, inexplicably absent from the Ballon d'Or shortlist, shone brightly during the match. Known primarily for her defensive skills, Girma surprised everyone by scoring her first two professional goals. Her first goal came from a powerful header into an open net, while her second was a perfectly executed header that found the top corner. This not only highlighted her versatility but also underscored her importance to the team. Girma expressed her joy about scoring, stating, "Anytime someone gets their first goal, it’s such a joy and the whole team gets so excited."

With her defensive prowess already established, the addition of scoring to her skill set could elevate Girma's value within the USWNT, making her an even more formidable opponent on the field.

Alyssa Malonson Another bright spot for the USWNT was debutant Alyssa Malonson, who made her mark by providing an assist during her first appearance. Malonson, a 25-year-old left-back, has navigated a unique career path that includes time at Auburn and OL Reign. Her performance in this match was a significant step as she aims to secure a more permanent role in the competitive left-back position.

Rose Lavelle Rose Lavelle also delivered a notable performance. Celebrated before the match for her contributions to the team, Lavelle's influence was felt both on and off the field. She assisted in creating Argentina's own goal from a corner kick, reinforcing her reputation for making crucial plays. Coach Emma Hayes noted Lavelle's significance in the squad, indicating that she remains a focal point in their strategies moving forward.

Losers

Argentina Argentina faced a disappointing night, demonstrating a stark contrast to the USWNT's performance. Despite their rich soccer heritage, they struggled to present any real challenge to the Americans. The match highlighted the gap between Argentina and the top-tier teams, with the Argentines failing to capitalize on their opportunities. With just four shots and only one on target, it was a reminder of the hurdles they face as they strive to improve on the international stage.

Mandy Haught Mandy Haught had a quiet debut as a goalkeeper for the USWNT, as she had little to do throughout the match. With Argentina failing to create significant threats, Haught's opportunity to make a memorable impression was limited. While a clean sheet is always a positive, the lack of action can be frustrating for a goalkeeper hoping to showcase their skills.

In conclusion, the USWNT's 3-0 victory over Argentina was marked by individual brilliance, particularly from Girma and Lavelle, while also highlighting ongoing challenges for Argentina. The match served as a platform for new talent to emerge, signaling a promising future for the USWNT as they continue to develop and prepare for upcoming competitions.