USWNT suffers rare loss to Mexico in another rough day

The USA women's soccer team lost to Mexico, raising concerns about their Olympic prospects. The team is now in second place.

The United States women's national soccer team had a tough night against Mexico, managing just one shot on goal, being outshot 13-9 overall, and earning only one corner kick compared to Mexico's nine. Defender Becky Sauerbrunn described it as a rough day at the office, as the defeat left the U.S. in second place in group play behind Mexico at the 12-nation inaugural tournament.

Under interim coach Twila Kilgore, the U.S. had secured a quarterfinal berth after defeating the Dominican Republic and Argentina. However, the setback against Mexico means they will receive a less-favorable matchup in the next round at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles.

This loss has raised concerns about the team's ability to rebound from their early exit at the World Cup last year, making the upcoming Olympics an important test. With the draw set to take place next month in Paris, the team is looking to regroup and improve their performance.

Emma Hayes is set to become the permanent coach after her season with English club Chelsea, and she has been working closely with Kilgore on Olympic preparations and long-term goals. Kilgore acknowledged that the loss to Mexico shows how far the game has come, emphasizing that there are no easy games anymore.

The U.S. started 10 experienced players, including Sauerbrunn, Lindsey Horan, Alyssa Naeher, Crystal Dunn, and Rose Lavelle, with veterans Alex Morgan and Emily Sonnett entering at the start of the second half. Despite resting top defender Naomi Girma and bringing in rising star Jaedyn Shaw late in the game, the U.S. was unable to secure a win.

Mexico's goals came from Jacqueline Ovalle and Mayra Pelayo, who secured the victory with a sensational shot from 25 yards in second-half stoppage time. Mexican Coach Pedro López praised his team's bold and brave performance, highlighting their dream of playing a good game against the United States.

The defeat has highlighted the challenges facing the U.S. women's national soccer team as they prepare for the Olympics and work towards long-term success. With a new permanent coach on the horizon, the team is aiming to regroup and improve their performance in future matches.

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