Thompson goal clinches USA triumph in SheBelieves Cup

Alyssa Thompson netted the decisive goal as the United States secured the SheBelieves Cup women's football invitational on Saturday, beating Colombia 1-0.

Playing for Chelsea, Thompson bent a brilliant shot into the top corner during the 82nd minute, deciding a match that the American side had controlled at the Red Bull Arena in New Jersey.

The forward's strike from distance overcame Colombia's determined backline, which had held the favourites off for much of the game by sitting deep and frustrating their attacks.

Thompson's clever finish delighted coach Emma Hayes, who is preparing her team for the upcoming World Cup next year.

"Teams across international football are now tightly organised and effectively managed, so occasionally you require contributions from further back when struggling to penetrate defences," Hayes commented.

"That was an excellent conclusion from her, and I believe we earned it considering our display in the second period."

This result meant Hayes' group topped the four-team round-robin event with a perfect nine points from three matches, following prior successes against Argentina and Canada.

The Saturday success rounded off a positive tournament for Hayes and her squad as they gear up for the World Cup.

Hayes, renowned as one of England's most accomplished managers, assumed control of the US team in 2024 after their premature departure from the 2023 World Cup.

She guided the USA to Olympic gold in Paris and remains dedicated to restoring their dominance at the global stage during next year's competition in Brazil.

Hayes noted that the US showings in the SheBelieves Cup signal strong progress for the team's growth.

"We've demonstrated ways to secure victories even when not performing at peak, we've displayed adaptability, we've highlighted our squad's strength, and we've exhibited composure," Hayes remarked.

"From my perspective as manager, those elements please me... even off our top form, we maintain confidence and faith that we'll continue to advance and discover solutions.

"Having led various sides, I recognise that such unity is invaluable, and this group is cohesive, yet also relishing the journey while staying devoted to enhancing their skills."