USWNT Kicks Off SheBelieves Cup with a Strong 2-0 Victory Over Colombia
A Night to Remember: Ally Sentnor and Catarina Macario Shine Bright
The US Women’s National Team (USWNT) began their SheBelieves Cup campaign on a high note, securing a convincing 2-0 victory over Colombia on Thursday. The match showcased the team’s attacking prowess and defensive solidity, highlighting the depth of talent within the squad. Two standout performances stole the spotlight: Ally Sentnor’s dazzling long-range goal and Catarina Macario’s emotional return to the scoresheet after a long injury layoff. Both players played pivotal roles in ensuring the USWNT’s unbeaten streak extended to 21 matches, a testament to the team’s resilience and dominance.
Ally Sentnor, the 21-year-old rising star, made history by scoring her first international goal in style. Picking up the ball in space, she showcased her composure and skill by driving toward the goal and unleashing a swerving shot that left the Colombian goalkeeper with no chance. The strike not only doubled the US lead but also marked a full-circle moment for Sentnor, who has grown up idolizing her teammates. She celebrated the milestone with her squad, a moment she described as “meaning the world” to her. Sentnor’s performance was a reminder of her potential, having been voted the US Young Female Player of the Year in 2022.
Catarina Macario’s Triumphant Return to the Scoresheet
The match was also a night to remember for Catarina Macario, who ended a nearly three-year wait for an international goal. Macario’s journey to this moment was far from easy; she suffered a torn ACL in 2022 and missed the Olympic Games last year due to further knee issues. Her return to the pitch has been a testament to her determination and resilience. Against Colombia, she provided the finishing touch to a brilliant team move that started with 17-year-old sensation Lily Yohannes. Yohannes, making her first start for the USWNT, delivered a lofted pass behind Colombia’s defense, finding Yazmeen Ryan, who crossed the ball into the box for Macario to slot home.
Macario’s goal was not just a personal triumph but also a celebration of her hard-fought journey back to fitness. “I’m just happy to be out there playing again,” she said after the match. “It’s such a joy to be able to score as well, but most importantly, I’m just happy to be playing.” Her humility and gratitude highlighted her appreciation for the opportunity to represent her country once again. With her first goal in almost three years, Macario sent a clear message that she is back and ready to contribute to the team’s success.
A New-Look USWNT Continues to Impress
The victory over Colombia was a testament to the USWNT’s ability to evolve while maintaining their dominance. With a mix of experienced players and fresh faces, the team demonstrated its attacking flair and defensive stability. Colombia, featuring talented attackers like Linda Caicedo and Mayra Ramírez, struggled to break down the US defense. The match also marked Colombia’s debut in the SheBelieves Cup, and while they showed flashes of attacking potential, they were unable to convert their chances into goals.
The USWNT, now under the leadership of head coach Emma Hayes, is aiming to win a sixth consecutive SheBelieves Cup title. The team’s performance against Colombia was a promising start to the tournament, showcasing their ability to adapt and excel against different opponents. With young talent like Lily Yohannes and Ally Sentnor stepping into prominent roles, the future of the USWNT looks bright. Yohannes, in particular, caught the eye with her composure and vision on the ball, proving that she is ready to make an impact at the highest level.
