The United States Women’s National Team (USWNT) secured a commanding 3-0 win against Jamaica in an international friendly held at Energizer Park in St. Louis, Missouri, on June 3, 2025. The match served as a tribute to retired USWNT legend Becky Sauerbrunn, celebrating her illustrious career in her hometown.
A Night of Celebration and Dominance
Before kickoff, the USWNT honored Becky Sauerbrunn with a heartfelt pre-game ceremony. The St. Louis native, who retired in December 2024 after earning 219 caps and captaining the team from 2021 to 2023, was celebrated for her contributions to American soccer. Sauerbrunn, a two-time FIFA Women’s World Cup champion and Olympic gold medalist, was welcomed warmly by the hometown crowd and participated in the match’s broadcast as part of the commentary team. Her emotional return to the field where she once played professionally set the tone for an inspiring evening.
The stadium buzzed with excitement as fans held signs and chanted Sauerbrunn’s name. The ceremony included a video tribute highlighting her career milestones, followed by a presentation of a commemorative jersey and a speech by the U.S. Soccer Federation president. Sauerbrunn, visibly moved, thanked fans for their unwavering support over the years and expressed her pride in seeing the next generation take the field.
Match Highlights
The USWNT showcased their depth and talent throughout the match, quickly asserting dominance from the opening whistle. Midfielder Sam Coffey opened the scoring in the 15th minute with a precise strike from outside the box, marking her third international goal. Coffey’s confidence and vision in midfield allowed her to dictate the pace early, setting up multiple attacking opportunities.
Forward Trinity Rodman doubled the lead in the 33rd minute, capitalizing on a defensive lapse to slot the ball past the Jamaican goalkeeper. Rodman’s pace and agility troubled the Jamaican backline, and she continued to create space with clever runs. Her goal was a result of relentless pressure and well-timed positioning inside the penalty area.
In the second half, veteran Crystal Dunn added a third goal in the 68th minute, finishing a well-orchestrated team move. The play began with a quick switch of play from the defense, a burst of speed down the wing, and a pinpoint cross into the box, which Dunn expertly guided into the net. The third goal solidified the team’s grip on the match and demonstrated their tactical discipline.
The US defense remained resolute, maintaining a clean sheet and limiting Jamaica’s scoring opportunities. Goalkeeper Casey Murphy made several key saves and commanded her area effectively, ensuring the defense remained organized. Center-backs Naomi Girma and Tierna Davidson formed a solid partnership, breaking up attacks and distributing the ball efficiently from the back.
Tactical Insights
Head coach Emma Hayes used the friendly as an opportunity to experiment with formations and provide playing time to emerging talents. The midfield trio of Coffey, Dunn, and Lindsey Horan controlled the tempo and transitioned smoothly between defense and attack. Hayes also introduced young substitutes in the second half, giving them valuable experience against a physical opponent.
Hayes emphasized the importance of such matches in building team chemistry and evaluating player performances ahead of upcoming competitive fixtures. She praised the players’ focus and adaptability, highlighting the seamless integration of new faces into the squad.
The team maintained high pressing throughout the match, forcing turnovers and creating quick counterattacks. Wingers Sophia Smith and Lynn Williams played crucial roles in stretching the Jamaican defense and providing consistent service into the box.
Looking Ahead
The USWNT continues its preparation for the 2026 CONCACAF Women’s Championship, with upcoming friendlies scheduled against top-ranked international opponents. The blend of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers positions the team favorably as they aim to maintain their dominance on the global stage.
Sauerbrunn’s tribute served as a powerful reminder of the legacy that current players strive to uphold. As the USWNT moves forward, they do so with the strength of their storied past and the promise of an even brighter future.
