Emma Hayes Celebrates Trinity Rodman’s Fresh Start After Scoring in Dominant Win

Emma Hayes, head coach of the United States women’s national team, heralded a “fresh start” for forward Trinity Rodman after she scored in her second appearance since the 2024 Olympics during Saturday’s 6-0 victory over Paraguay.

Rodman’s goal concluded a remarkable week, as it followed her signing a new contract with the Washington Spirit, which, according to her agent, makes her the highest-paid women’s player globally.

The match in Carson, California, marked Rodman’s return to international play since her only appearance in 2025, a friendly against Brazil last April, which she missed due to injuries affecting her back and knee.

“I’m truly happy for her,” said Hayes. “This past year has been challenging, and she is now ready to move forward, which today symbolizes a new beginning for her. She is settled, happy, and aware of her future, which has lifted a significant weight off her shoulders.”

Rodman was a constant threat on the right flank throughout the game. Her 56th-minute goal came after she received a ball from defender Tara Rudd, skillfully cut inside, and placed her shot just inside the near post. Following her goal, she attempted a celebratory dance, hoping to engage Hayes in the moment.

“Throughout the match, I kept encouraging Tara to play one over the top, and it finally happened. When I called for the ball, she delivered it perfectly. After scoring, I thought it was my time to shine,” Rodman remarked in a post-match interview on TNT.

The U.S. team dominated the match from start to finish, although they struggled to find the net in the first half until Reilyn Turner—one of three players making their USWNT debut—scored during stoppage time. This opened the floodgates for additional goals in the second half, with Ally Sentnor netting two more, and contributions from Rodman, Emma Sears, and a Fiorella Martínez own goal enhancing the scoreline.

Hayes acknowledged that the team was essentially in preseason mode, which accounted for some of the rust displayed, including by Rodman. Notably, Rodman was named captain for the match, and Hayes commended her performance during the 63 minutes she spent on the field, as well as Claire Hutton, who took the captaincy after Rodman’s exit.

“People respond well to responsibility, and bestowing this role upon them enhances their performance, as they care deeply about the team and its traditions. Rodman’s goal and her leadership today were significant for our fans,” Hayes added.

Looking ahead, the U.S. will face Chile on Tuesday in Santa Barbara, California, and Hayes is eager for the team to improve on their performance from Saturday.

“While we had substantial possession in the first half, our decision-making and execution in the final third need refining. Our ability to move the ball into the right areas is present, but achieving that final touch takes time, especially being just a week into preseason. Scoring six goals in our first match is quite commendable,” Hayes concluded.