In what proved to be a high-scoring affair between two of the top women’s teams in the world, the United States opened up an early 2-0 lead, but five-time FIFA Women’s World Player of the Year, Marta, took matters into her own hands registering a hat-trick on Sunday.
Thorns FC's Tobin Heath, starting in her second consecutive match of the tournament, helped put the United States in front 1-0 as she knocked down Megan Rapinoe’s corner kick in the sixth minute to help setup Carli Lloyd’s second goal in as many matches. The United States quickly doubled its lead behind an impressive strike off the foot of Rapinoe in the ninth minute.
Marta followed that up with the next three goals. The Brazilian striker pulled one back in the 19th minute and then added two more in the opening 20 minutes of the second half (55th and 65th minutes) to complete the comeback for the host team.
Christen Press hit the woodwork late in the match, while Brazilian goalkeeper Luciana made two key stops late in the match to prevent an equalizer.
READ:WNT edged 3-2 by Brazil in second match at International Tournament of Brasilia
The United States sits third in the group and can still potentially qualify for the championship match of the tournament on Dec. 21. In order to do so, the United States must make up the gap in goal differential (China is +6, U.S. -1) and needs China to lose to Brazil. The final match of round-robin play for the United States is Wednesday, Dec. 17 against Argentina; kickoff is set for 1:20 p.m. (Pacific). Fans can once again follow @ussoccer_wnt for updates during the match.
