The United States triumphed over Italy in a spirited friendly match that took place on Friday at Inter and Co Stadium, with a convincing scoreline of 3-0. Olivia Moultrie set the tone early, scoring just 1 minute into the game. Later, Catarina Macario displayed her exceptional skills in the second half, netting two goals at the 18th and 31st minutes, solidifying her team’s victory.
Moultrie was undoubtedly the standout player, contributing one goal and taking four shots on target throughout the match. Likewise, Macario’s performance was pivotal; she found the net twice and attempted three shots.
Head coach Emma Hayes deployed a tactical 4-4-2 formation featuring Claudia Dickey in goal, supported by Emily Fox, Naomi Girma, Emily Sonnett, and Lilly Reale in defense. The midfield comprised Olivia Moultrie, Sam Coffey, Claire Hutton, and Alyssa Thompson, with Catarina Macario and Rose Lavelle leading the attacking front.
On the other hand, Italy’s coach Andrea Soncin chose a 4-3-3 setup, with Laura Giuliani guarding the net. The defensive line included Valentina Bergamaschi, Martina Lenzini, Elena Linari, and Lisa Boattin. Giada Greggi, Manuela Giugliano, and Arianna Caruso teamed up in the midfield, while the forward trio consisted of Sofia Cantore, Michela Cambiaghi, and Chiara Beccari.
The match official, Sandra Benítez Arteaga, oversaw the proceedings efficiently.
Substitutions for the United States
69’ 2H – Rose Lavelle came off for Lily Yohannes and Olivia Moultrie for Jaedyn Shaw
77’ 2H – Catarina Macario was substituted by Jameese Joseph
78’ 2H – Naomi Girma made way for Emily Sams
Substitutions for Italy
59’ 2H – Martina Lenzini replaced by Cecilia Salvai, Lisa Boattin by Elisabetta Oliviero, and Chiara Beccari by Julie Piga
75’ 2H – Manuela Giugliano substituted for Eva Schatzer and Arianna Caruso for Giulia Dragoni
83’ 2H – Michela Cambiaghi replaced by Cristiana Girelli and Lilly Reale by Kate Wiesner
Yellow Card for Italy:
43’ 2H Valentina Bergamaschi (Unsporting behavior)