Moultrie's Double Leads USWNT to Dominant Victory Over Portugal
United States Dominates Portugal with Early Goals and Strong Offensive Play
Initial Scoring Spree Puts U.S. Ahead
Olivia Moultrie, a dynamic midfielder, wasted no time making her mark on the game. Within the opening minute, she unleashed a powerful left-footed shot from the center of the penalty area, sending the ball precisely into the far-left corner of the net, just 45 seconds after kickoff. This swift offensive maneuver set the tone for the American team's aggressive start.
Portugal's Swift Reply
Despite the early setback, Portugal quickly regrouped and found an equalizer. In the fifth minute, Jessica Silva capitalized on a cross delivered from the right flank by Beatriz Fonseca, heading the ball into the lower left corner of the goal, bringing the score to 1-1 and reigniting the contest.
Moultrie's Second Strike Restores U.S. Lead
Moultrie continued her scoring clinic, reclaiming the lead for the United States in the tenth minute. Following a skillful back-heel pass from Jaedyn Shaw, Moultrie fired another left-footed shot that eluded the Portuguese goalkeeper, Patricia Morais, and ricocheted off the left post into the goal. This marked Moultrie's fourth international goal and her second brace of the match, further solidifying the U.S. advantage.
Portuguese Attempt to Narrow the Gap
As the second half unfolded, Portugal pushed for another goal. In the 51st minute, Jessica Silva unleashed a right-footed shot from the center of the box, attempting to level the score once more. However, her effort sailed just wide of the left post, leaving Portugal still trailing.
Coffey Seals the Victory for the U.S.
The United States cemented their victory in the 82nd minute when Sam Coffey scored her fifth career international goal. From an Ally Sentnor corner kick, Coffey executed a precise one-touch right-footed shot from the middle of the box, finding the back of the net inside the left post and extending the lead to 3-1, effectively sealing the outcome of the match.
Team Performance and Upcoming Fixture
The U.S. team's overall performance demonstrated their robust form, improving their record for the year to 9-3-0. This win also extended their historical dominance over Portugal, bringing their all-time record against them to 11-1-1. Looking ahead, the squad is set to face New Zealand in Kansas City on Wednesday night, aiming to maintain their winning momentum.