USWNT seeks sharper start in Tuesday rematch against Spain after opening defeat

USWNT coach Emma Hayes wants her team to be more efficient and aggressive from the opening whistle in Tuesday's rematch against Spain at Subaru Park in Chester.

Saturday's Defeat

Reigning World Cup champions Spain defeated the U.S. 2-0 in Washington on Saturday after scoring two goals in the first 14 minutes. The U.S. dominated the second half, outshooting Spain 13-6 and holding an edge in expected goals at 2.26 to 0.43, but failed to score and missed a penalty kick taken by Lily Yohannes.

Team Reactions

Hayes insisted she is not concerned with results in this two-game series, emphasizing team progress and stating that the U.S. is much closer to Spain than three years ago. Defender Emily Fox said the team wants to be more aggressive with added physicality, while Spanish defender Oihane Hernández expects a highly physical match. Centerback Tierna Davidson stressed the need for calm confidence, togetherness, and better finishing.

Roster And Context

Both teams are missing key players due to injuries, including Spain's Aitana Bonmati, Mapi León, and Mariona Caldentey, alongside U.S. players Naomi Girma and Sam Coffey. Hayes noted that international progress takes time following long gaps between training camps, contrasting club player-to-player marking with zonal defense required at the national level.