Sophia Wilson made a strong return for the U.S. women's national team, netting her first international goal since 2024 with a sensational strike in just the second minute against Brazil in Sao Paulo. However, Emma Hayes' side could not hold on, as defensive lapses led to a 2-1 defeat, prolonging the USWNT’s winless run on Brazilian soil to four matches.
Wilson, who came back from maternity leave earlier this year, showcased the sharp movement, technical finesse, and clinical finishing that previously established her as one of the world’s elite forwards. Throughout the match, she consistently troubled the Brazilian defense and came close to adding a second goal in the later stages of the game.
Despite Wilson’s outstanding display, the rest of the U.S. squad struggled to find rhythm in what was expected to be an early glimpse of their potential for the 2027 Women's World Cup. Brazil responded swiftly, energised by a lively crowd at Neo Química Arena. Taina Maranhão equalised in the 11th minute with a header at the far post following a defensive lapse by the U.S. Backline. Soon after, Zaneratto put Brazil ahead 2-1, latching onto Dudinha’s through ball and expertly lofting her finish over Mandy McGlynn.
Hayes’ team went into halftime trailing, despite having scored first for the first time since 2002. The second half saw no further goals as the U.S. struggled to penetrate a disciplined Brazilian side. Mallory Swanson was named in the squad for the first time since her own return from maternity leave, while Brazil’s Marta was also available, but both remained unused substitutes. The result extended the U.S. team’s winless streak in Brazil to four matches, dating back to 1997, and marked their second consecutive loss to the South American giants.
The MVP
Wilson. Despite the loss, U.S. supporters can take heart from the performance of the Portland Thorns striker. If Swanson can follow her lead and regain top form, the USWNT can still feel optimistic about Triple Espresso's prospects of being a dominant force at the 2027 Women's World Cup.
The big underperformer
Trinity Rodman. Although this may seem a tough assessment given her late-game injury, Rodman found it difficult to exert her usual influence. The Washington Spirit forward was quiet throughout her 88 minutes on the pitch. Despite the U.S. enjoying more shots and possession than Brazil, their attacking efforts often lacked real threat. Rodman’s inability to consistently create opportunities for herself and her teammates contributed to the team’s frustration. The immediate concern now is her fitness—Hayes and fans alike will hope her injury is minor and won’t keep her out of the second fixture against Brazil in three days’ time.
Match rating (out of five): ⭐⭐⭐
