Sophia Wilson scored her first goal for the United States since 2024, but Brazil came back to secure a 2-1 victory in Saturday’s international friendly in Sao Paulo.
Wilson, who made her return following maternity leave earlier this year, made a stunning entry into the match by scoring in the second minute, marking a dream start for the U.S. This was the Portland Thorns striker’s 25th international goal in 62 appearances and she became the ninth mother to find the net for the women’s national team.
However, Brazil’s reaction was immediate and impressive.
Brazil equalized in the 11th minute with a header from Taina Maranhão, striking the opposite post. Shortly after, Brazil took a 2-1 lead through Zaneratto, who converted from a pass by Dudinha, slipping the ball past U.S. goalkeeper Mandy McGlynn.
Despite dominating the second half according to coach Emma Hayes, the U.S. could not find the equalizer as they trailed at halftime after starting strong. Hayes acknowledged an improved performance from her squad but noted the difference in clinical finishing between the two teams.
“I think we did a better job in the second half,” Hayes remarked to reporters. “We dominated the duels and created enough chances to get back into the game, but we lacked the finishing quality. Brazil capitalized on their opportunities, which made the difference,” she added. “Both teams are top-level competitors, having played in the Olympic gold medal final, so the match was closely contested. It was an entertaining game, but at this level, it comes down to the details.”
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This defeat extended the USWNT’s winless streak in Brazil to four matches, a stretch dating back to 1997. The two teams are set to face off again on Tuesday in Fortaleza, as the U.S. looks to prepare for the 2024 FIFA Women’s World Cup hosted by Brazil.
“The atmosphere was incredible,” Hayes said. “Even though I try to prepare my team for experiences like this, nothing compares to actually being in it. For many of my players, it was their first time feeling such crowd intensity.”
Mallory Swanson was included in coach Hayes’ roster for the first time in 18 months, following a period of parental leave. Her inclusion reunited her with Wilson and Trinity Rodman, who had not played together since the 2024 Olympics. Swanson had scored in the previous matchup against Brazil for the Olympic gold medal in Paris.
Rodman and Smith started the match while Swanson remained on the bench and did not play. Rodman exited the game late in regulation after an apparent injury but was later reported to be “fine” according to a U.S. Soccer spokesperson.
These matches mark the first time the United States has played away from home since November 2024.
“I am thrilled with this experience because if we wanted it to be simple, we would just play at home in LA or somewhere else, but we chose to challenge ourselves,” Hayes remarked.
Brazil’s legendary player Marta was on the bench but did not make an appearance, despite Brazil winning five of their seven matches this year.
Next summer, the stadiums in Sao Paulo and Fortaleza will serve as venues for Women’s World Cup matches. The United States aims to qualify for the tournament, which begins in late November during the Concacaf W Championship.
Contributions from ESPN’s Jeff Kassouf and The Associated Press are acknowledged in this report.