Courtesy of Orlando Pride
The SheBelieves Cup opened in Orlando with a bang, seeing the return of Marta to action for the first time in almost a year, providing the game-winning assist for Brazil.
In the second match, the USWNT used two first-half goals by Mallory Swanson to take control over Canada, winning 2-0 on Thursday night.
Brazil beat Japan 1-0 in Marta’s return to the pitch.
Courtesy of Orlando Pride
It was an important moment for the Orlando Pride and Brazil in the 68th minute, which marked the return of one of the greatest players to play the women’s game. Marta’s appearance in the game helped spark the only goal for either team, a cross into the middle to find Debinha to tap home in the 72nd minute.
The Pride’s other Brazilian, who has yet to make an appearance for Orlando, Adriana, played a full 90 minutes for the Seleção Feminina, providing a dangerous option on the wing.
USWNT blank Canada 2-0 behind Mal Swanson’s brace
Courtesy of Orlando Pride
Chicago Red Stars forward Mallory Swanson scored twice in the first half to help lead the US Women’s National Team to beat Canada 2-0. Prior to kickoff, former Pride forward Alex Morgan celebrated her 200th cap with the national team.
“I think we played well together, first and foremost,” USWNT Head Coach Vlatko Andonovski said after the game. “And I think in order to win against a team like Canada, a good team, a top-level team, everyone has to put in a shift, whether you started or came off the bench — everyone. I was very happy with the approach in the game. I was very happy with the mindset. I was very happy with the performances individually of every player that was on the field, but also as a team.”
The second round of SheBelieves Cup matches will be on Sunday, February 19th, when the USWNT and Japan face off at 3:30 p.m., while Brazil takes on Canada at 6:30 p.m.
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