USWNT cruise past China at the home of Inter Miami

The United States Women’s National Team defeated China on Saturday in the first of two matches between the two teams.

The game was played at DRV PNK Stadium, home of Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami, and USWNT got off to the perfect start in their penultimate fixture of the season. In the 8th minute Portland Thorns forward Sophia Smith nudged the US ahead, converting brilliantly after some good work on the left wing from Trinity Rodman.

Smith kept getting in good positions but struggled to make the most of those opportunities, missing two very promising openings. On 25 minutes she scooped a left-footed shot over the crossbar from close range and missed a one-on-one ten minutes later.

Shortly before halftime she picked up an apparent knee injury in a tough tackle and was forced off. The full extent on that injury is not yet clear, but it could well see her ruled out of next week’s second game against China.

USWNT dominated in the first half, China’s only opening came through Wurigumula shortly before the break but she failed to take advantage.

For the second half USWNT captain Lindsey Horan whipped a hopeful cross into the box and it floated into the back of the net, giving the hosts a two-goal lead. The US team continued to attack and found a third goal on 77 minutes when Trinity Rodman ghosted into the box and finished coolly from close range.

The first meeting these teams ended with a 3-0 victory for the United States, who outclassed China in a one-sided affair.