USA Women Secure 3-1 Victory Over Portugal in Connecticut
The U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT) responded emphatically from their recent setback, cruising to a 3-1 triumph over Portugal Women’s National Team at Pratt & Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field.
Rapid Start & Conference-Changing Goals
The young U.S. side wasted no time. Forward Olivia Moultrie broke the deadlock just 44 seconds into the contest, her strike marking the 22nd first-minute goal in USWNT history.
Not satisfied, she doubled her tally in the 10th minute, weaving through Portugal’s defence to establish a 2-1 lead.
Midfielder Sam Coffey sealed the win for the United States in the 82nd minute, finishing from a corner delivery to notch her fifth career international goal.
Portugal’s lone response came early, when Jéssica Silva headed in at the five-minute mark. Despite the goal, the visitors struggled to impose themselves, managing only one shot on goal during the match.
A Youthful Line-up Makes Its Mark
Head coach Emma Hayes deployed a notably young starting XI, featuring eight changes from the previous meeting with Portugal. Only defenders Avery Patterson and Emily Sonnett, and forward Alyssa Thompson retained their places. Sonnett, earning her 112th cap, wore the captain’s armband.
The average cap-count of the starting line-up was just 21.7, and the selection included three teenagers: 18-year-old midfielder Lily Yohannes, 19-year-old midfielder Claire Hutton, and 19-year-old defender Jordyn Bugg. Alongside them were 20-year-olds Moultrie and Jaedyn Shaw, both among the highest-scoring teenagers in NWSL history.
Occasion and Milestones
The match coincided with a special celebration: USWNT legend Alyssa Naeher was honoured in her home state of Connecticut. The former goalkeeper, whose career includes two FIFA Women’s World Cup titles and an Olympic gold medal, received recognition ahead of play.
Moreover, the U.S. Deaf National Team provided the day’s double-header opener, underscoring the federation’s commitment to inclusivity and development across its national programmes.
With this win, the U.S. now can carry momentum into their next friendly on Oct. 29 in Kansas City, Missouri, against New Zealand Women’s National Team.
The strong performance, especially from the younger players, gives a promising signal for future fixtures as the USWNT continues to refresh its roster while maintaining competitive form.