Kiyoshi Mio-USA TODAY Sports
Twenty minutes into Sunday’s Concacaf W Gold Cup quarterfinal, a slow-motion TV replay caught United States women’s national team forward Trinity Rodman telling a Colombia opponent to “back the f*** up.” The moment summarized the tone from the Americans in their 3-0 victory that put them into Wednesday’s semifinal against longtime rival Canada and eased concerns from Monday’s shocking 2-0 loss to Mexico.
Lindsey Horan scored early from the penalty spot, and Jenna Nighswonger and Jaedyn Shaw each added goals as the U.S. put Colombia under pressure early and converted opportunities.
U.S. interim coach Twila Kilgore made six changes to her starting lineup on Sunday from that loss to Mexico, many of which paid off. The roster changes, the improved performance and the U.S.’ advancement to the semifinals of a surprisingly enticing tournament, provide plenty of talking points.
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