The United States women's national team began their World Cup cycle with a 2-1 loss to Brazil in a friendly match at Sao Paulo on Saturday. The Americans had a quick start but were undone by two goals in three minutes from the hosts.
Wilson's Return Marked by Early Goal
Sophia Wilson, making her first appearance for the US since 2024 after taking time off to give birth to her daughter, scored in the second minute. She forced a giveaway among three Brazilian players, slid into the box, and unleashed a drive inside the far left post to give the US an early lead.
Brazil Strikes Back in Quick Succession
Brazil wasted no time responding. In the 11th minute, Isabela sent a corner kick into the middle of the box where Taina Maranhao had two yards of space from the nearest American defender, powering a header to tie the match. Just three minutes later, the US defense was disorganized again. A breakout from Brazil's end saw the ball reach the box, and miscommunication among several US players left Bia Zaneratto alone in the middle for a left-footed shot that put Brazil ahead 2-1.
US Goalkeeper Keeps Deficit Manageable
US goalkeeper Mandy McGlynn made three first-half saves to prevent the deficit from growing. Claire Hutton nearly equalized near the hour mark with a straight-on shot from distance, but Brazilian goalkeeper Lele made a stabbing save with her right hand. Lele left the match in the 81st minute with a leg injury after making two saves.
Late Chance Goes Begging
The US had one last chance six minutes into second-half stoppage time after a restart, but a bounding ball missed the stretched left foot of Jaedyn Shaw at the six-yard box. The match was the first between the teams in Brazil since December 2014.
