On March 11th, 2015, the United States Women’s National Soccer Team (USWNT) defeated France 2-0 in the final match of the Algarve Cup at Algarve Stadium. It all started in the 7th minute of the game with a goal by United State’s (U.S.) defender, Julie Johnston. As U.S. midfielder, Lauren Holiday, took a free kick from the left side of France’s net, Julie Johnston made an aggressive run across the box from the right side. Johnston was then able to get her head on Holiday’s service and struck the ball into the right side of the net. This was Johnston first official goal with the USWNT and gave the U.S. a 1-0 lead early in the game.
France then responded back with three dangerous shots that forced the U.S. goalkeeper, Hope Solo, to make three solid saves. The U.S. was then able to advance their lead in the 41st minute.
Solo was able to get her goal kick down to midfield where it met with U.S. forward, Amy Rodriguez. Rodriguez was able to redirect the ball to US forward, Christen Press, as she was being fouled. Referee Cristina Dorcioman, allowed the U.S. to take advantage as Press quickly gained control of the deflected ball and started sprinting towards the France goal. As Press was sprinting down the field she was able to weave her way through three French defenders and slot the ball home. Press was able to give the U.S. a 2-0 lead before heading into halftime.
Throughout the match, France fought hard to bounce back and tie the game. They outshot the U.S. 5 to 11 and were able to get 7 shots on goal. Solo did not allow the French women to record a single goal even after France was awarded a penalty in the 81st minute. With this, Solo was able to earn her 81st shutout in a U.S. jersey.
The USWNT has appeared in 20 Algarve Cup Tournaments and this recent title game marks the 14th time that the U.S. has appeared in the Algarve Cup championship game. The next game for the USWNT is on April 4th, 2015 against New Zealand at Busch Stadium in St. Louis, Missouri as they prepare for the FIFA Women’s World Cup Tournament that will start in June and will take place in Canada.