USWNT vs. Colombia Match Recap: Rodman’s Nutmeg, Morgan’s PK Miss, and Goals from Rising Stars

October 30, 2023
By Rohtas Wadera

The USWNT took on Colombia in a set of friendlies, and while the results were mixed, the showcase of young talent was a great sign of what the future holds for the United States. Of the 27 players that were called into the roster, 17 of them will be playing in the NWSL Playoffs next week, making these friendlies must-see TV. If you didn’t get a chance to get around to these games, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a recap of the two USWNT vs. Colombia friendlies.

USWNT vs. Colombia Match 1

The first match was a bit of a surprise for everyone watching, but if you saw Colombia at the World Cup, it shouldn’t be. The Colombians made it to the quarterfinal and defeated higher-ranked teams in Germany and South Korea. Las Chicas Superpoderosas (Powerpuff Girls) were strong in defense for most of the game and held strong just as they did at the World Cup.

The one great highlight for the USWNT was Trinity Rodman, who seems to nutmeg someone almost once a game with every chance she gets.

a lil bit of Trin Trickery 🪄 pic.twitter.com/DPcwhhAEMh

— U.S. Women's National Soccer Team (@USWNT) October 27, 2023

On the stroke of halftime, Alex Morgan would have a chance to give the USWNT the lead. However, she struck the post.

Alex Morgan got a penalty just before halftime for the USWNT, but missed…twice. pic.twitter.com/689VEO1yWc

— Caleb Turner (@calebturner23) October 27, 2023

On a different day, luck might have been on the USWNT’s side, and it would go in off the post, but not this time. The USWNT’s issue from the World Cup persisted in the first match, with plenty of shots but not enough on target or enough to really challenge the opposition. The match would end 0-0.

USWNT vs. Colombia Match 2

However, the second match would be a completely different story. The switch flipped for the USWNT, and their finishing was on another level after a scoreless first half. Mia Fishel showed why she moved to a high-level club like Chelsea. This was a great finish from inside the box. She managed to get enough power on the shot falling away as she jumped off a great cross from Emily Sonnett.

… and that's how it works, that's how we got the goal 🎶🎶🎶 pic.twitter.com/9XoiZgPnpR

— U.S. Women's National Soccer Team (@USWNT) October 29, 2023

Set pieces have always been a strength for the USWNT, and that was a well-executed move from the training ground.

A few minutes later, Lindsey Horan scored the second, and it was something special. To hit this cross on the volley with that much technique, power, and accuracy is something very few in the world can do, and make it look effortless in the process.

Lindsey Horan.

Absolutely filthy. pic.twitter.com/XPyRyAozGq

— U.S. Women's National Soccer Team (@USWNT) October 29, 2023

Horan struck it so well you can literally hear the thumping sound from her boot when it makes contact with the ball. The Great Horan wanted to stay in Europe with Lyon for a reason, and starting on an all-star team like that would only help her elevate to new heights.

The last goal was just the icing on the cake because it was Jaedyn Shaw who found the back of the net.

.@JaedynShaw11 (18 years and 343 days) is the youngest player to score for the #USWNT since Mallory Swanson scored against Colombia at the 2016 Summer Olympics at 18 years and 102 days of age. pic.twitter.com/vgSNHMjrfX

— U.S. Women's National Soccer Team (@USWNT) October 29, 2023

When the young stars score against a solid opponent like Colombia, it shows that they’re ready for the challenge and are capable of performing at the international level as well as the NWSL. Shaw kept her composure and finished as if she were a seasoned veteran, with the Colombian defender closing down the shot and the keeper coming out to close off the angle. Between her and Mia Fishel scoring, it’s exciting to see the next generation has the potential to take over as the next great generation of USWNT players.

All in all, while the USWNT didn’t win both games, the second match had a lot of exciting moments and a lot to be optimistic about for the future. As long as the young stars continue to develop and create chemistry with the solidified stars of the team, the USWNT will continue to have an elite program, regardless of who the new manager is.

Featured image via Noel Danseco