ST. LOUIS — In a thrilling display of talent on the field, the United States women’s soccer team triumphed over Jamaica with a commanding 4-0 victory Tuesday night. The match saw standout performances from Ally Sentnor and Lynn Biyendolo, each netting two goals. This match also paid tribute to long-serving defender Becky Sauerbrunn.
Sentnor opened the scoring in the 19th minute, marking her goal with a heart-shaped hand gesture in celebration. Just ten minutes later, she added another to her tally after capitalizing on a deflection. The 21-year-old, recently named the 2024 U.S. Soccer Young Player of the Year, praised her team for their cooperation and skill. “They’re incredibly easy to play with, always moving the ball,” Sentnor mentioned. “I’m still working hard to improve for them.”
Lynn Biyendolo made a significant impact after being introduced as a substitute, finding the back of the net in the 60th minute. She later scored again in the 88th minute following an assist from Avery Patterson. Biyendolo now boasts 24 career goals. Reflecting on the match, Coach Emma Hayes commented, “We’ve evolved so much over the last year. Ally Sentnor is an incredible finisher, and Lynn Biyendolo’s ability to close a game is invaluable. Having both options strengthens our team immensely.”
Phallon Tullis-Joyce made her mark with a solid performance in goal, ensuring a third consecutive clean sheet for the United States. With the retirement of seasoned goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher last year, Tullis-Joyce is emerging as a worthy successor. Although she wasn’t tested with shots on target this match, Coach Hayes emphasized the importance of building teamwork. “Playing in goal requires patience and readiness for pivotal moments,” Hayes said. “Phallon is showing significant progress, and I’m pleased she had a calm evening.”
Jamaica, yet to secure a win over the U.S., fielded two sibling pairs—Allyson and Chantelle Swaby, and Kalyssa and Amelia Van Zanten. The U.S. team recently defeated China, 3-0, in St. Paul, Minnesota. Originally, the United States was to face China twice, but a match alteration led to Jamaica stepping in for the second game.
Prior to the game, a ceremony honored Becky Sauerbrunn, a St. Louis native who retired last year after a prolific 16-year international career. As a two-time Women’s World Cup champion and Olympic gold medalist, she was celebrated with enthusiasm. Fans greeted her with a standing ovation and were given bobbleheads in her likeness. Sauerbrunn, expecting her first child with partner Zola Short, also made her debut as a television commentator for the match.
Looking ahead, the United States will face Ireland in two matches, scheduled for June 26 in Commerce City, Colorado, and June 29 in Cincinnati. The team is also gearing up for a showdown against Canada on July 6 in Washington, D.C.