Match Report
The CommBank Matildas have been defeated by world no.1 USA 2-1 in a much improved performance in the second match of the SheBelieves Cup.
Lynn Biyendolo and Michelle Cooper scored for the USA, before Michelle Heyman pulled one back for Australia late in the second half.
There were four changes to the Australian side that took on Japan in the first match. Teagan Micah replaced Mackenzie Arnold in goal, while Holly McNamara, Wini Heatley and Charli Grant started in place of Tameka Yallop, Katrina Gorry and Clare Hunt.
The changes meant that Steph Catley slid across to centre-back while Grant took up the left-back position. Winonah Heatley started as a defensive midfielder while Holly McNamara – in her first start in 1122 days for the CommBank Matildas – lined up as the centre forward.
The game also saw two national team debuts, with 19-year-old Alana Murphy becoming CommBank Matilda #235 and 23-year-old Laini Freier becoming CommBank Matilda #236 in the second half.
The United States started quickly in front of their home fans. Lynn Biyendolo scored within the first minute, a flowing move down USA’s left-hand side finding the former Western Sydney Wanderers and Melbourne Victory forward in front of goal. The experienced striker would make no mistake from there.
Australia had a scare seven minutes later when Biyendolo put the ball in the back of the net a second time, but it was ruled out for offside.
The CommBank Matildas grew into the game as it went on. While the USA had more possession, Australia created plenty of opportunities of their own.
Kyra Cooney-Cross was particularly fantastic in midfield with her ability to control the ball and her vision to find long passes.
