USWNT Players’ Performance Review: Italy Match Highlights

**Claudia Dickey (8/10):**
Dickey has solidified her status as the top goalkeeper, achieving yet another clean sheet. Her performance against Italy demonstrated her strong saving ability, effective control of the backline, and keen awareness to facilitate attacking plays during Italy’s high presses.

**Jordyn Bugg (8/10):**
At just 19 years old, Bugg’s three starts for the senior team mark a significant achievement. Her poised partnership with Girma poses a formidable challenge for opposing teams.

**Naomi Girma (8/10):**
Although Girma saw limited action in the first half, she excelled in ball retention and led the defense with remarkable composure and possession skills.

**Kate Wiesner (6/10):**
Wiesner made her first start for the USWNT amidst a highly competitive outside back position. Although she occasionally ventured too high and faced recovery challenges, her overall performance contributed to maintaining Italy’s scoreless result.

**Emily Fox (8/10):**
Fox delivered another strong performance, showcasing her offensive threat every time she steps on the field. Her dynamic presence on the right side compelled the Italian defense to engage, creating opportunities for her teammates down the wing.

**Lily Yohannes (8/10):**
Yohannes, the youngest player at 18, continues to impress with her maturity, finesse, and tactical discipline. Positioned alongside Heaps and Hutton, she adeptly contributed to offensive plays.

**Lindsey Heaps (8/10):**
Having not participated in the prior match against Italy, Heaps captained this game and successfully organized her midfield unit. Her synergy with Hutton proved effective, and her leadership helped maintain order even during challenging moments.

**Claire Hutton (8/10):**
Hutton, a quick-learning player, excelled beyond her years. She demonstrated impressive combination play and vision, effectively switching the point of attack throughout the match.

**Cat Macario (9/10):**
Macario’s performance was almost flawless, needing just one more goal for a perfect rating. Her goal-scoring instinct, refined technique, and ability to challenge defenders highlighted her resurgence with 8 goals for the USWNT this year.

**Jaedyn Shaw (8/10):**
Shaw’s clinical goal was a highlight, but her all-around contributions throughout the match displayed her growth as a key attacking player, making her a valuable prospect for future tournaments.

**Alyssa Thompson (7/10):**
Although Thompson had a quieter game than usual, she consistently created chaos for Italy’s defense with her relentless runs, showcasing her ability even without direct contributions to goals.

**Kennedy Wesley (7/10):**
Wesley made a commendable debut, marking her first start and cap with the USWNT. Her clean defensive performance alongside Bugg was crucial in preserving the shutout.

**Emma Sears (7/10):**
Sears was active in the attacking third and came close to scoring, demonstrating aggression and creativity, though she ultimately fell short in finishing.

**Avery Patterson (7/10):**
Patterson showcased her stamina and creativity in the second half, contributing significantly to the attack with clever services and one-on-one opportunities.

**Lilly Reale (7/10):**
Reale comfortably adjusted to her outside back role and delivered a threatening service late in the match, nearly adding a third goal for the United States.

**Croix Bethune (6/10):**
Bethune displayed some strong moments on the ball but struggled to impact the game as significantly as Yohannes did during her time on the field.

**Jaelin Howell (6/10):**
Making her USWNT return after a long hiatus, Howell adapted well despite limited touches and contributed to maintaining possession when she had the ball.

**Emma Hayes (9/10):**
Hayes had another successful match, leading the team to a resounding victory and earning her 25th win as head coach, a commendable way to conclude the year.