The Matildas faced a tough challenge against a revamped USA team, ultimately succumbing to a 2-1 defeat in their second game at the SheBelieves Cup. Despite a second-half goal from Michelle Heyman, Australia’s efforts fell short after a rocky start that saw them go two goals down early in the match.
Unlike the previous game’s disappointing 4-0 loss to Japan, this performance showed significant improvement, much to the satisfaction of former Socceroos player Andy Harper. He commented on the positive aspects of the game, noting that while the result was not what fans hoped for, the team’s resilience was commendable. “There’s plenty to chew on, plenty of good moments, plenty of good performances,” he remarked after the match.
The USA struck first just 42 seconds into the game, with Lynn Biyendolo finding the net before many in the crowd had settled. This sudden goal left the Matildas reeling. Former Matilda Grace Gill aptly described it as a “nightmare start.” Although Biyendolo almost scored again soon after, an offside call denied the USA a second goal, prompting Australia to regain focus.
In the final quarter of the first half, the Matildas made a solid attempt to equalise with a series of promising plays but were unable to convert their opportunities. The second half saw the USA extend their lead in the 68th minute by Michelle Cooper, who scored after a well-executed US counterattack, marking her first international goal.
In response, coach Tom Sermanni brought on Michelle Heyman, who, after a well-placed cross from Hayley Raso, netted a goal in the 80th minute, reviving hopes for a comeback. The substitutes also included debutants Alanah Murphy and Laini Freier, adding fresh energy to the team.
Despite the late attempts at closing the gap, Australia struggled to maintain momentum and could have faced an even greater defeat if not for goalkeeper Tegan Micah’s impressive saves in the dying moments of the match. After the game, Sermanni praised his team’s character and effort, especially following the difficult opening minutes.
The Matildas are set to face Colombia next, aiming to build on this improved performance and find the right balance between defence and attack in their upcoming match.