In an exciting and well-contested friendly match on Saturday afternoon at SoFi Stadium, the United States women's national soccer team (USWNT) emerged victorious against Brazil with a score of 2-0. Key players Trinity Rodman and captain Lindsey Heaps were instrumental in securing this win, with Rodman scoring early in the game and Heaps converting a penalty kick in the second half.

The match began with a burst of energy from the USWNT, showcasing their intent and determination from the get-go. Just five minutes into the game, Rodman marked her return to the national team with a sensational goal. After Alyssa Thompson intercepted the ball just past midfield, many expected her to deliver a pass to Heaps on the left wing. However, Thompson, displaying remarkable skill and confidence, cut inside and expertly maneuvered past a Brazilian defender to deliver a perfectly weighted pass into the box. Rodman, demonstrating her striking prowess, found the back of the net with the outside of her right foot. This goal was particularly significant as it was Rodman’s first since last summer's Olympics, where she had previously scored the winning goal in a dramatic quarterfinal match against Japan.

Rodman's absence from international play had been felt, as she took several months off primarily for rest and to recuperate from a back injury following a demanding 2023-24 season. Her return was met with enthusiasm, and she proved her worth in this match, showcasing her ability to create opportunities and maintain possession.

In the second half, the USWNT maintained their momentum, and the game took a crucial turning point when 17-year-old Lily Yohannes, freshly substituted into the match, was fouled in the box by Brazilian defender Ludmila. Heaps confidently stepped up to take the penalty kick, delivering a powerful shot past Brazilian goalkeeper Lorena, thereby doubling the Americans' lead in the 66th minute. It was a moment that highlighted Heaps' preparation, as she had dedicated extra time during Friday's training to refine her penalty-taking skills, particularly targeting the left corner of the net.

One of the standout performances in the match came from goalkeeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce, who earned her first international cap and kept a clean sheet. Having been called up to the national team camp at the end of 2024, Tullis-Joyce had been praised by coach Emma Hayes for her potential, although she was reminded to work on her communication and positioning. Tullis-Joyce, who has been a key player for Manchester United this season with 12 clean sheets, faced significant challenges from a determined Brazilian side that sought to avenge their loss in the gold medal match of the Paris Olympics. In particular, she made a crucial save in the 52nd minute when Brazilian attacker Gio found herself in a threatening position, but Tullis-Joyce's quick reflexes prevented what could have been a game-changing goal.

As the USWNT continues to explore new player combinations and strategies, the match served as a valuable opportunity for both veteran and young players to showcase their talents. With coach Emma Hayes emphasizing the importance of player exposure, the squad featured a blend of experienced athletes alongside promising newcomers like Ally Sentnor and Tara McKeown, each making their third starts in this competitive environment.

The USWNT will face Brazil again in the second match of this doubleheader on Tuesday at PayPal Park in San Jose, California, where they will look to build on this impressive performance and continue their preparations for future competitions.

Written by Laken Litman, who has covered college football, college basketball, and soccer for FOX Sports, this match report underscores the ongoing evolution of the USWNT as they prepare for their next challenges on the international stage.