Sam Mbonu
The USWNT cruise into the semifinals of the Concacaf W Gold Cup with a 3-0 quarterfinals win over Colombia 3-0, a game that served as a strong response to last week's loss to Mexico.
The USWNT were off the mark early in the game when Lindsey Horan converted from the spot in the 13th minute, Jenna Nighswonger doubled the lead for USWNT in the 22nd minute and Jaedyn Shaw added one more before halftime. Alex Morgan played a big role in the first two goals, drawing the penalty and then setting up Nighswonger with a header.
USWNT got all the three goals in the 1st 45 minutes and the goals are representative of an impressive outing for the USWNT, who were able to successfully execute a game plan that worked. Though Colombia enjoyed more ball possession, the USWNT were more clinical in front of goal.
The impressive collective showing was matched by a meaningful outing for several individuals, including Nighswonger. Veterans goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher also stood out with several important saves in her 100th cap, but the headlining act was Morgan, who made her strongest case yet to stay in the mix for the Olympics.
Morgan stands out
Morgan came into this tournament on a year-long goalless run in a national team jersey and only joined the squad to replace the injured Mia Fishel, but the 34-year-old has worked her way into a big role at the Gold Cup. It was a little bit of a surprise when she was named among the starters, but she ultimately served as the headlining act on Sunday.
The forward took just two shots, but it's because she excelled in a more supporting role in which she is no longer the focal point of the USWNT's attack. She drew the penalty that Horan scored and was a distraction for Colombia's defense on Nighswonger's goal, two moments that were emblematic of her 72-minute showing. She also generated 0.88 expected goals on her own, showcasing a bit of her trademark self in the process.
What's next
The USWNT return to play on Wednesday, when they face Canada in the semifinals. You can watch the match at 7 p.m.
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