The United States Women’s National Team clashed with Ireland in a friendly match on July 1, 2021. Fans were eager to watch the two teams go head-to-head, but the result was ultimately disappointing for the Ireland team. A first-half mistake from Ireland proved costly, leading to a goal for the world champions, the USA. The match was a display of the skill and intensity of both teams, with moments of impressive play, but the error proved to be the defining moment of the game. In this article, we will explore the highlights and lowlights of the match, and how the result will impact both teams moving forward.
In a game that seemed to start petering out almost from the first whistle of the second-half, Ireland slipped to their 15th successive defeat against the USA. Courtney Brosnan’s unfortunate howler proved to be the difference between the two sides, as Ireland lost the fixture they’ve played more than any other in their 50-year history. Brosnan’s error spoiled an otherwise decent keeping display from her and, sadly for Ireland, it seems to be typical of the type of self-inflicted wounds that have cost them dearly in the past.
Despite the defeat, Ireland had many positives to take away, with their ability to stay in the fight remaining viable with the World Cup fast approaching. The visitors created some very decent opportunities before Brosnan’s error, restricting the double world champions from exploiting their pace and power. Furthermore, before wilting away, Ireland’s performance began with strong promise, and they had the game’s initial chances.
The Republic of Ireland’s players passed the World Cup trophy on their way into the CITYPARK stadium in St Louis before kicking off the 100-day countdown to their opening clash against hosts Australia. Overall, it was a much closer fixture than expected, and the margin of victory was relatively fine, with Ireland still showing a level of resilience that will stand them in good stead heading into the World Cup.
In the end, the first-half mistake proved to be the difference between the two sides as the world champions, USA, claimed a hard-fought victory over Ireland. Despite dominating possession for much of the game and creating a number of chances, the Irish were unable to find the back of the net and were left to rue their missed opportunities. As they reflect on what might have been, they can take heart from the fact that they pushed the best team in the world all the way and gave a good account of themselves. There is no doubt that Ireland will bounce back from this defeat and continue to make strides in the world of soccer. For now, though, they will have to lick their wounds and regroup ahead of their next challenge.
