Top-ranked U.S. women cruise to win over Canada in soccer friendly

National Post

a day ago

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Canada went into Wednesday's contest with a 4-53-9 all-time record against the U.S. in a rivalry that dates back to 1986 when the Canadian women's program was established. The Canadians have not won on American soil since Nov. 11, 2000.
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In their most recent meeting, last April at the SheBelieves Cup in Columbus, Ohio, the two teams played to a 2-2 draw before the U.S. won a penalty shootout 5-4. The Americans also won by penalty shootout in the game before that, the CONCACAF W Gold Cup semifinal in March 2024.
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Canada's last win over the U.S. was a 1-0 decision in the Tokyo Olympic semifinal in August 2021. That was the Americans' first loss to their northern neighbours since March 2001, in the group stage of the Algarve Cup.
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It was 29 C, feeling like 32 C at kickoff for the clash of the last two Olympic champions.
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The U.S. came out with purpose and Biyendolo, put behind the Canadian defence in the sixth minute, failed to find the target with an attempted chip. Two minutes later, Canada's defence was cut open again with Sheridan stopping Biyendolo's header.
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After going down 1-0, Canada threatened for the first time in the 20th minute only to see U.S. goalkeeper Claudia Dickey, in just her second senior appearance, deny Jordyn Huitema from in close.
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Sheridan stopped Alyssa Thompson in the 23rd minute after another Canadian defensive breakdown.
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The U.S. had 63% possession in the first half and outshot Canada 8-5 (6-2 in shots on target).
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Early in the second half, the Americans queued up to take a shot on the Canadian goal, winning ball after ball.
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Stoney sent on Nichelle Prince and Shelina Zadorsky in the 62nd minute. Simi Awujo, Holly Ward, Marie Levasseur and Annabelle Chukwu followed off the Canadian bench.
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Biyendolo hit the crossbar in the 80th minute as the Canadian defence was found wanting again.
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Appointed in January, Stoney saw her record with Canada fall to 6-2-1. The lone previous loss was a 1-0 setback April 8 at the hands of No. 32 Argentina in Langford, B.C. — 'a game we should never lose,' said Stoney.