The United States women’s national team has much work to do as it prepares for next year’s Women’s World Cup, as champions Spain shut them out at Audi Field in Washington, D.C., on Saturday. The Spaniards found the back of the next twice while the Americans drew a blank.
Spain struck after just three minutes when Patri Guijarro scored from outside the penalty area. Eva Navarro doubled the lead in the 14th minute, finishing a cross from Salma Paralluelo after the American defence failed to deal with the attack.
Emma Hayes’ side responded with sustained pressure but could not find a way past Spanish goalkeeper Adriana Nanclares. The USA had 13 shots, 10 on target, but missed a second-half penalty through Lily Yohannes. Sophia Wilson also had a goal ruled out for offside.
There were positives for the Americans, including the return of Mallory Swanson to international action for the first time since the 2024 Olympics. Spain finished with 10 players after Athenea del Castillo was sent off in stoppage time.
The defeat was the first of two friendlies between the sides, with the return match scheduled for October 13 in Chester, Pennsylvania. The games provide Hayes with an important opportunity to measure her team against the reigning world champions ahead of the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Should American fans be concerned? One defeat in a friendly is hardly cause for panic, particularly against a team of Spain’s quality. However, conceding twice in the opening 14 minutes exposed defensive vulnerabilities, while the failure to convert numerous chances highlighted a familiar problem: creating opportunities is not enough if they are not taken.
The USA remains the reigning Olympic champion and has time to address these shortcomings. But Spain demonstrated how clinical finishing and defensive composure can decide a match at the highest level.
Tuesday’s rematch will offer Hayes and her players a chance to respond. The World Cup is still months away, but if the Americans hope to reclaim the title they last won in 2019, performances against the world’s best must produce more than promising spells and missed opportunities.
