USWNT Triumphs 2-0 Over Colombia to Kick Off SheBelieves Cup

HOUSTON, Texas — The United States Women’s National Team (USWNT) opened the 2025 SheBelieves Cup with a commanding 2-0 victory against Colombia on Thursday night at Shell Energy Stadium, signaling a strong start to their campaign.

Forward Catarina Macario netted the first goal of the match in the 33rd minute, taking a perfectly placed cross from Yazmeen Ryan to score from close range. Ally Sentnor followed suit with a stunning long-range shot in the 60th minute, marking her first career international goal.

“I’m just happy to be out there playing again,” Macario said of her goal, which came nearly three years after her last international score. “It’s such a joy to be able to score, but most importantly, I’m thrilled to be playing.”

Before the match, USWNT extended its unbeaten streak to 21 games, boasting an impressive record of 43 goals scored and just 10 conceded during that stretch.

Sentnor, who was celebrated as the 2024 U.S. Soccer Young Female Player of the Year, was overjoyed with her contribution to the team. “It means the world. I’m playing beside people I’ve grown up idolizing, so being out here is a full circle moment,” she remarked.

Head coach Emma Hayes praised both forwards for their performances, noting the importance of scoring in crucial matches. “Catarina showed her instinct in front of the goal, while Ally’s finish was exceptional. It’s great to see them both contributing,” Hayes said.

The match drew a crowd of 15,043, and the USWNT showcased a strong defense, limiting Colombia to zero shots on goal throughout the night.

The first half was relatively quiet with a few close attempts. An 18th-minute corner kick nearly resulted in a goal for the US when Jenna Nighswonger’s effort hit the crossbar. Colombia’s best chance came in the 37th minute, when Mayra Ramírez had a shot go over the bar.

The second half saw the Americans take control after Sentnor’s goal, which came after a defensive error allowed her to launch a swerving 27-yard shot into the net. “I don’t think anyone expected me to shoot. It was a great moment,” Sentnor said, reflecting on her historic first international goal.

The USWNT now faces Australia on Sunday in Glendale, Arizona, before taking on Japan on February 26 in San Diego. Meanwhile, Colombia will meet Japan in their next match, looking to bounce back from this defeat.