By Amelia Hirtle
On Sunday evening, the US Women’s National team ended the year on a high note by beating Germany 2-1 at Red Bull Arena. Over 26,000 fans attended the match in Harrison, New Jersey. The home team was looking to escape the potential of a four-game losing streak. One that has never happened in the history of the team.
The US did not start off strong by any means and it was no surprise when Germany scored in the first 20 minutes. The home team was unable to gain control of possession and played many of the opening minutes in their own end on defense. It was around the 18th minute when Germany forced the US to block multiple shots before they slotted one home. Alyssa Naeher had slipped and just missed as she dove to save the ball.
Offensively, the US were unable to get a single shot on goal in the first half. It certainly left a bad taste in the mouth of the Americans as they faced a fourth straight loss head on.
However, 10 minutes into the second half, Sophia Smith persisted and scored to gain the equalizer. From then on, the team continued to push forward, and Mallory Pugh scored the game-winner. This time, the squad seemed more determined not to let an error like the last time, cost them the game.
Still, problems persist for the midfield that head coach Vlatko Andonovski seems intent on keeping the same. Too often the backline is expected to clean up the mistakes of the midfield, which has left them vulnerable for other teams to attack.
In the end, it was a night of joy as the team celebrated the win, as well as Alex Morgan reaching 200 caps in her international career. The next camp will occur in January 2023, and it will officially be a World Cup year for the squad.