The U.S. Women’s National Team took a significant step toward defending their SheBelieves Cup crown with a 2-1 victory over Australia at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. An electrifying first-minute goal from Lynn Biyendolo and a breakthrough strike by Michelle Cooper—her first at the senior international level—proved decisive in front of 23,503 enthusiastic fans.

Rapid-Fire Start for a Revamped Lineup

Head Coach Emma Hayes introduced 11 changes to the starting XI that began the USA’s 2-0 win against Colombia just three days prior, marking a rare occurrence in team history. Despite the wholesale rotations—and with an average player age making it the USA’s youngest lineup since 2001—the Americans wasted no time making their mark.

A mere 41 seconds in, forward Emma Sears drove into Australia’s penalty area, drawing in defenders before feeding Jaedyn Shaw, who then provided a simple square pass for Biyendolo to finish from close range. It was Biyendolo’s 22nd international goal and the ninth-fastest in USWNT history among those with precise timestamps.

Debuts and Firsts: Hutton and Cooper Shine

The match featured several noteworthy milestones. 19-year-old Claire Hutton earned her first USWNT cap (and start), becoming the 273rd player in program history. Meanwhile, 22-year-old Michelle Cooper came off the bench in the 62nd minute to net her first senior international goal just six minutes later. Cooper’s composed 10-yard finish, set up by Ally Sentnor, gave the USA a 2-0 lead in the 68th minute and showcased the deepening talent pool under Hayes’s guidance.

Thompson Sisters Start, Davidson Wears the Armband

Another highlight was the sight of Alyssa and Gisele Thompson on the field together from the opening whistle, marking only the fourth time in U.S. history that sisters have started a match together. On the defensive end, Tierna Davidson captained the team for the first time, anchoring a back line that also included returning veteran Crystal Dunn—featuring in her first match action since last summer’s Olympic final.

Australia’s Late Push Falls Short

Australia—a spirited side ranked 15th in the world—pulled one back in the 80th minute. A cross from Hayley Raso found forward Michelle Heyman, whose low, powerful header slipped past U.S. goalkeeper Mandy McGlynn. It was the Matildas’ lone shot on target, as the Americans outshot their opponents 15-7, controlling both possession and tempo for significant stretches. A late save from Australia’s Teagan Micah denied Sentnor in the 88th minute, but the U.S. held firm to secure the victory.

All Eyes on the Final Showdown with Japan

With two wins apiece, the USA and Japan are deadlocked atop the 2025 SheBelieves Cup standings, but the Nadeshiko’s superior goal difference means they only need a draw in the final clash. The Americans, chasing their eighth SheBelieves Cup trophy, must beat Japan on Feb. 26 at San Diego’s Snapdragon Stadium (7:30 p.m. PT / 10:30 p.m. ET; TBS, Universo, Max, Peacock, Westwood One Sports) to retain their title.

Expect a thrilling face-off between these two international powerhouses as they battle for bragging rights and championship glory in the prestigious annual tournament.