The last appearance of the United States women’s soccer team on the global stage was challenging.
In last year’s World Cup, the USWNT faced elimination in the round of 16, despite having won the prior two tournaments.
The U.S. is ready for redemption.
And it kicked off strong in its opening game on the Olympic field, achieving a 3-0 victory against Zambia.
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Mallory Swanson, left, of the U.S. celebrates with Sophia Smith (11) during a women’s Group B match against Zambia during the Olympic Games Paris 2024 at Stade de Nice on July 25, 2024, in Nice, France. (Marc Atkins/Getty Images)
In her Olympic debut, Trinity Rodman opened the scoring for the Stars and Stripes in the 17th minute.
The United States quickly extended its lead as Mallory Swanson found the net in the 24th minute, scoring again just 70 seconds later.
After falling behind by three goals, Zambia was reduced to ten players when Pauline Zulu received a red card in the 33rd minute, leaving her in tears as she exited the field.
Mallory Swanson of the U.S. celebrates during a women’s Group B match against Zambia at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 at Stade de Nice on July 25, 2024, in Nice, France. (Marc Atkins/Getty Images)
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“I believe there are minor aspects of the game and our play that we need to refine, and we can continue improving,” Swanson stated. “So, I see these small details; we’ll address them, correct them, and keep moving forward.”
Head coach Emma Hayes acknowledged that prior to the match, a 3-0 win wouldn’t have thrilled her much. However, it’s a positive step.
The United States was knocked out by Sweden in the Women’s World Cup round of 16 via penalty kicks, a shocking upset for the soccer community. Following this defeat, the team’s manager Vlatko Andonovski stepped down.
Trinity Rodman (5) of the United States celebrates scoring with Mallory Swanson (9) during the first half of a women’s Group B match against Zambia at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 at Stade de Nice on July 25, 2024, in Nice, France. (John Todd/ISI/Getty Images)
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This defeat signified the earliest exit for the U.S. team in Women’s World Cup history.
The United States will next compete against Germany on Sunday in Marseille, and a win would significantly enhance their chances of advancing to the knockout stage.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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