It’s officially a wrap on the 2024 calendar year for the U.S. Women’s National Team. The USWNT played its final match of the year on Tuesday, beating the Netherlands 2-1. It was not the most complete performance from the USWNT, although the victory was a fitting end to a successful year for the gold medal champs.
This was truly a game of two halves. The USWNT was outplayed by a wide margin in the first half. The Dutch took a lead in the 15th minute and could have easily added more. Alyssa Naeher, playing her final international match, was forced to make several saves from close range just to keep the Netherlands from scoring three or four goals in the opening 45 minutes. The Americans also got a fortuitous own goal in the 44th minute that was completely against the run of play but tied the game 1-1 at halftime.
At halftime, USWNT coach Emma Hayes made two subs, altering the formation and tactics to help the Americans find their way. She made three more subs 20 minutes later that changed the game even more, allowing the U.S. to generate some chances moving forward. Ultimately, it was Lynn Williams scoring in the 71st minute to give the Americans an unlikely lead. With a little more help from Naeher, the U.S. was able to hold on for the victory.
LYNN…
