February 21, (THEWILL) – Meikayla Moore of New Zealand scored three goals for the US women’s national team (USWNT) as the Americans won 5-0 in the second round of the SheBelieves Cup on Sunday.
Moore’s own goals in the fifth, sixth, and 36th minutes gave the US all the help they needed after their goalless draw with the Czech Republic in the tournament opener on Thursday.
From there, the United States took over. With a header put up by Sofia Huerta in the 51st minute, Ashley Hatch made it 4-0, and Mallory Pugh scored in the third minute of second-half stoppage time.
Moore’s nightmare began when she attempted to intercept Sophia Smith’s cross but instead diverted the ball into her own net. Catarina Macario’s header was heading wide a minute later until it ricocheted off Moore’s head.
Margaret Purce’s cross from the right wing completed her unenviable hat-trick. Moore attempted to clear the ball with her foot, but it failed miserably once more. Four minutes later, she was replaced. The 25-year-old is a seasoned player with 48 New Zealand caps to her name. In 2020, she signed a contract with Liverpool.
The USWNT registered its first ever set of three own goals in a single game.
It was a victory that extended the United States’ home unbeaten streak to 64 games. Alyssa Naeher made one save for the Americans, who have not conceded a goal in over two years on home soil. They last conceded a goal on March 11, 2020, in a 3-1 victory against Japan in the SheBelieves Cup final. They have kept a record 16 consecutive home shutouts since then.
The tournament comes to a close in Frisco, Texas, on Wednesday, with New Zealand taking on the Czech Republic before Iceland and the United States face off.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
