Stanford grad LaBonta makes historic debut as Girma returns in U.S. womens 3-0 win over China
3 minute readPublished: Sunday, June 1, 2025 at 3:50 pm
US Women's Soccer Dominates China in 3-0 Victory, Featuring Historic Debut and Star Return
The US Women's National Team (USWNT) secured a decisive 3-0 victory over China on Saturday, showcasing both seasoned talent and fresh faces. The match, held in St. Paul, Minnesota, saw the return of star defender Naomi Girma and a historic international debut for 32-year-old midfielder Loeau LaBonta.
LaBonta, a midfielder for the Kansas City Current in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL), entered the game as a second-half substitute, making her the oldest player to debut for the USWNT. Her reaction, filled with excitement and surprise, highlighted the significance of the moment.
Girma, returning from injury, played her first game for the national team this year. Her presence was immediately felt, with coach Emma Hayes praising her control and decision-making on the field. Girma's recent move to Chelsea, commanding a record transfer fee, further underscores her importance to the team.
The US goals came from Catarina Macario, Sam Coffey, and Lindsey Heaps, with goalkeeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce earning her second shutout in as many appearances. The victory demonstrates the team's resilience despite missing key players from last year's Olympic gold medal-winning squad, including Sophia Wilson, Mallory Swanson, and Trinity Rodman.
Coach Hayes expressed satisfaction with the team's tactical improvements, noting increased control and versatility among the players. The USWNT's strong performance against China, a team they have consistently dominated, sets a positive tone as they prepare to face Jamaica on Tuesday in St. Louis. The USWNT has a strong overall record against China, including five straight wins.
BNN's Perspective: This win is a promising sign for the USWNT. While the absence of key players is noticeable, the team's ability to integrate new talent like LaBonta and welcome back stars like Girma, while maintaining a high level of performance, is encouraging. The focus on tactical improvements under Coach Hayes suggests a continued evolution of the team's strategy, which is crucial for sustained success in international competition.
Keywords: US Women's National Team, USWNT, Naomi Girma, Loeau LaBonta, China, soccer, women's soccer, international debut, Phallon Tullis-Joyce, Catarina Macario, Sam Coffey, Lindsey Heaps, Emma Hayes, NWSL, Kansas City Current, Chelsea, US vs China, soccer news, sports news, women's soccer news.