Sophia Smith says she is in a “happy place” as her own personal good form continued with a tenth goal of 2022 for the U.S. in a narrow 1–2 defeat to England at Wembley on Friday night.
The Portland Thorns star, who has enjoyed a superb domestic season in the National Women’s Soccer League, was a constant threat to the Lionesses back line and equalized after Lauren Hemp’s early goal when she hammered home an effort from the edge of the box after a high press from teammate Lindsey Horan.
Despite defeat, Smith continued to show at 22 years of age her ability to be one of the top players in the world, and is pleased with how things are going for her at the moment ahead of a trip to Spain on Tuesday.
“I think just confidence,” she said, when asked about her more consistent form throughout 2022. “I think I’ve really grown into the league, found my place in Portland and within the team, so I think for sure it’s a confidence thing.
“I feel every time I step on the field I can be myself and play free and just not like put a lot of pressure on myself. I’m in a happy place and yeah, that’s the biggest thing.”
Smith laughed when asked if she was on a “revenge tour” against those who wanted to see more from her at the back end of…
