The Matildas followed up their shocking 4-0 loss to Japan by conceding after just 41 seconds to the United States in Arizona on Monday, before restoring some pride in a 2-1 defeat to the world’s top-ranked team.
Goalkeeper Teagan Micah, in for Mackenzie Arnold, had a few nervy moments but pulled off several high class saves to keep the margin narrow. Michelle Heyman scored her 29th Matildas goal to cut the gap to 2-1 in the 80th minute after the hosts led 2-0.
Alanna Kennedy #14 of Australia and Lynn Biyendolo #6 of the United States battle for the ball during the first half of the 2025 SheBelieves Cup match at State Farm Stadium on February 23, 2025 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Chris Coduto/Getty Images)
The Americans scored through Lynn Biyendolo just 41 seconds into the match, with the Matildas defence all at sea – although replays suggested a hint of offside from the final pass.
They recovered well before falling further behind to an excellent USA goal via Michelle Cooper in the 68th minute.
Heyman headed in a Hayley Raso cross in the 80th minute to set up a nervy finish, but the USA were able to keep cool heads and hold on for victory.
The loss to Japan was duly slated and the Matildas’ performance was described as ‘un-Australian’ by coach Tom Sermanni.
“I think it’s a measure of how poor they were on Friday that we’re so relieved with the result today,” said football expert Andy Harper on Paramount’s coverage.
“There’s still disappointment because we want our team to win and we expect them to win even when the odds are against them. But I think the general sentiment is going to be one of enthusiasm for the improvement that was made.
“The response from the team was clear and evident, particularly after they went down after 45 seconds. I mean, the world could have caved in given the introspection in the group at kick-off.
“Today [there was], plenty of stuff to chew on, plenty of good moments, plenty of good performances. But tinged with the disappointment of losing an international.”
The Roarhttps://www.theroar.com.au/2025/02/24/world-could-have-caved-in-matildas-show-fight-after-early-shock-but-worlds-best-usa-prove-too-strong/‘World could have caved in’: Matildas show fight after early shock but world’s best USA prove too strong
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