Portugal Stuns USWNT with First-Ever Victory in Chester

CHESTER, Pennsylvania — Portugal scored a historic victory over the U.S. women’s national team on Thursday night, claiming a surprising 2-1 win in an international friendly at Subaru Park. This marked Portugal’s first win in 12 attempts against the U.S.

Rose Lavelle opened the scoring for the U.S. just 33 seconds into the match, but Portugal responded with a determined effort. Diana Gomes equalized just before halftime, heading in a corner kick to put the game at 1-1. The goal marked the first time Portugal had ever scored against the U.S. women’s national team.

In the second half, Fátima Pinto netted the winner in the 72nd minute with a deflected shot from another corner, stunning the home crowd of 17,297 fans. Despite a strong start, Emma Hayes‘ side struggled defensively against Portugal’s set pieces, leading to their defeat.

Emma Hayes, head coach of the U.S., described the performance as a work in progress. “We have to take these losses in stride as we prepare for World Cup qualifiers,” she said. The loss ended the U.S. women’s team’s six-month unbeaten streak.

The U.S. had the bulk of possession but struggled to convert chances into goals, with Lavelle’s early effort remaining their only score. They created several opportunities but failed to find the net again, despite a valiant effort. The U.S. will have a chance to avenge the loss when they meet Portugal again on Sunday in East Hartford, Connecticut.