Photo Credit: Jamie LeBlanc-Imagn Images
WASHINGTON — In a clash between two soccer powerhouses, the U.S. women’s national team fell far behind. World Cup champions Spain proved why they are the world’s No. 1 team by beating the United States in an international friendly.
The USA couldn’t overcome a scary start, conceding two goals in the first 15 minutes. While the USA looked more threatening in the second half, the game was won and lost in the first 45 minutes, as evidenced by the 2-0 score line.
Spain’s forward line of Salma Paralluelo, Edna Imade and Alexia Putellas shone with a sharp touch passing, fluid movement and clinical finishing. The US failed to break through Spain’s first line of pressure and fell directly into Spanish hands.
The US left wing was problematic defensively and Spain took advantage of that for the first goal. Mysteriously unmarked Patri Guijarro further strengthened his claim as the world’s best active midfielder with a sumptuous strike in the third minute.
Patrie would later describe his first goal as a “bucket of cold water” for the United States
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