You Won't Believe How the Young USWNT Turned the Game Around Against Paraguay—Shocking Second Half!

The U.S. women’s national soccer team opened its 2026 campaign with an impressive 6-0 victory against Paraguay on Saturday. This match, held in a camp that notably excluded players from NJ/NY Gotham FC, showcased several inexperienced athletes seizing the chance to make a statement on the international stage.

This match unfolded as a tale of two halves. In the first 45 minutes, while the U.S. dominated possession and created numerous scoring opportunities, they struggled to convert these chances into goals. Paraguay, under the leadership of head coach Fábio Fukumoto, managed to absorb the pressure and halt several dangerous U.S. attacks just in time. U.S. head coach Emma Hayes acknowledged that her team's performance didn't meet their usual standards, highlighting the importance of capitalizing on limited opportunities at this level of play.

“The realities are, at the highest possible level, you don’t get three and four chances. You get one and two,”

Hayes remarked to the media after the match, emphasizing the need for improvement as the team progresses through its campaign.

Among the standout players was Trinity Rodman, who was the most-capped player in camp and wore the captain's armband at the start. Rodman made significant contributions on the right flank, sending numerous crosses into the box, but her teammates were unable to finish these promising plays. This performance serves as a learning experience for the younger players on the team, many of whom are still finding their footing at the international level.

The U.S. women's national team is known for its high standards and competitive spirit. As they move forward, the challenge will be to refine their execution, particularly in converting chances when they arise. With the 2026 campaign just beginning, it’s crucial for the team to build on this victory and address the areas that need improvement.

This match not only highlights the potential of new talent but also underscores the ongoing evolution of the U.S. women's program as they prepare for future competitions. Fans will be eagerly watching to see how the team develops and adapts in the coming months, aiming to maintain their dominance on the world stage.