Naomi Girma scored her first two international goals as the United States defeated Argentina 3-0 on Wednesday night in the final game of the year on American soil.
The game was the third in six days for the United States, which also won its first two games against Iceland. It was the first match for the United States since winning the gold medal at the Paris Olympics last summer.
Defender Girma scored with a header in the 37th minute, raising her arms and smiling as U.S. coach Emma Hayes applauded her. Girma played in every match at the French Olympics.
“The ball landed right in front of me. It was amazing,” Girma said. “I thought I couldn’t miss this. It fell on my head.”
Girma contributed to an own goal, giving the Americans a 2-0 lead before halftime. She headed in Rose Lovell’s corner kick, but the ball was deflected into the goal by Argentina’s Aldana Cometti.
Girma made it 3-0 with a header in the 49th minute. She then ran to the sideline and hugged former Stanford teammate Sophia Smith on the bench.
“I feel like no matter who scores the first goal, it’s always a big joy and the whole team gets excited,” Girma said. “So it was fun to get my stuff tonight.”
Coach Hayes shook up his lineup against Argentina at Louisville’s Lynn Family Stadium, resting his players for this weekend’s final National Women’s Soccer League regular-season game, with playoff spots and seeding still at stake. Ta.
Three new players started, goalies Mandy Haught, Eva Gaetino and Alyssa Maronson. It was the first time in 23 years that three or more players started in their national team debut.
Lovell, who was named captain for the match, had previously been honored for his 100th appearance for the national team. She reached a milestone in June.
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“It was kind of a victory tour, so [we got] It was three solid wins and a lot of celebration and proud moments for individuals,” said defender Emily Fox.
The United States will close out the year with two games in Europe. They face England at Wembley on November 30th and Holland in The Hague on December 3rd.
“We’re obviously excited to head to Europe and play against two great opponents,” Girma said. “I think now is the time to turn the page on this celebration and really look forward to 2027 and try to start developing now.”
