USWNT Player Ratings: Stars Shine in Ireland Rout
The USWNT player ratings from their latest triumph showcase a team brimming with depth and confidence, as a completely revamped squad dismantled the Republic of Ireland 4-0 for the second time in just three days. Under the watchful eye of new head coach Emma Hayes, the U.S. side demonstrated that their quality runs deep, securing the program’s historic 600th all-time victory in Cincinnati. The match was a testament to Hayes’ tactical acumen, blending veteran leadership with exhilarating new talent to produce another dominant performance.
From the opening whistle, it was clear this was not merely a friendly but a crucial evaluation period ahead of a packed summer schedule. Hayes made eleven changes from the side that won in Colorado, handing first caps to Kansas City Current’s Izzy Rodriguez and Seattle Reign FC’s Sam Meza. The decision paid off spectacularly, sending a clear message that every spot on the roster is up for grabs and that performance, not reputation, is the currency in this new era.
A Tale of Two Halves: Dominance From Start to Finish
The U.S. team established control early, suffocating Ireland with a high press and quick, incisive passing. The tactical setup seemed designed to maximize the strengths of the new-look lineup, with wide players stretching the Irish defense and creating space for runners from midfield. The first goal felt inevitable and arrived in the 12th minute through a moment of veteran brilliance.
Biyendolo Leads by Example
Wearing the captain’s armband for the first time in her illustrious career, Lynn Biyendolo, the most experienced player on the pitch with 82 caps, played with immense purpose. Her leadership was rewarded when she latched onto a perfectly weighted chip from Emma Sears. Biyendolo met the ball with a sublime one-time volley, steering it past the Irish keeper to give the USWNT a deserved 1-0 lead. It was a captain’s goal, a blend of intelligent movement and clinical finishing that set the tone for the rest of the match.
A Debut Dream for Rodriguez
The first half concluded with another storybook moment. In the 42nd minute, debutant Izzy Rodriguez found herself in an advanced position following a set-piece. When the ball broke her way inside the penalty area, she showed the composure of a seasoned international, calmly slotting the ball home for her first-ever USWNT goal. The celebration from her teammates was effusive, highlighting the strong camaraderie within the squad. Scoring on your debut is a rare feat, and Rodriguez’s goal sent the home crowd into a frenzy, capping a near-perfect first half for Hayes’ side. This moment will surely be a highlight when considering the final **USWNT player ratings** for this international window.
Detailed USWNT Player Ratings vs Ireland
The performance against Ireland provided a fascinating look at the squad’s depth. Evaluating the **USWNT player ratings** from this match is crucial for understanding how Emma Hayes is shaping the team for the future. Here’s a breakdown of how each player fared at TQL Stadium.
Goalkeeper
Jane Campbell: 7/10
While largely a spectator for long stretches, Campbell was composed and decisive when called upon. She organized her new-look backline effectively, and her distribution was clean and accurate, often initiating attacks from the back. A clean sheet is the primary objective, and she delivered it with minimal fuss.
Defenders
Izzy Rodriguez: 8.5/10
A dream debut. Defensively solid and adventurous going forward, Rodriguez capped her first appearance with a well-taken goal. She never looked out of place and provided a constant outlet on the left flank, making a strong case for future inclusion.
Sam Staab: 7.5/10
A commanding presence at the heart of the defense. Staab read the game exceptionally well,
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