USA Falls 1-2 to Portugal: Game Analysis (Oct 23, 2025)

In a surprising turn of events, Portugal defeated the United States women’s national team 2-1 in a friendly match held in Chester, Pennsylvania, on October 23, 2025. This victory marks a historic moment for Portugal, as it is their first win against the USWNT in 12 encounters.

Match Highlights

Despite the absence of key player Trinity Rodman due to injury, the U.S. squad, led by coach Emma Hayes, featured many regulars. The team was looking to maintain their momentum after a previous victory over Canada, which took place 113 days prior to this match. Interestingly, this match also honored retired star Alex Morgan, who previously scored her first international goal at the same stadium in 2010.

First Half Analysis

• Rose Lavelle opened the scoring in the first minute of the match.
• Portugal had not won any of their last eight games before this encounter.
• Diana Gomes scored Portugal’s equalizer just before halftime, marking the first goal ever for Portugal against the USWNT.

After Lavelle’s quick goal, the U.S. appeared poised to take control, nearly doubling their lead shortly after. However, Portugal regrouped and made significant defensive adjustments. Just before halftime, Gomes connected on a corner kick, heading the ball past U.S. goalkeeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce, leveling the score.

Second Half Developments

The U.S. came back into the second half with an aggressive approach. They aimed to regain the lead but were met with unexpected resistance. Fátima Pinto shocked the Americans with a deflected shot that found the back of the net, giving Portugal a 2-1 advantage. This unexpected lead put pressure on the U.S. to respond.

Conclusion and Upcoming Matches

Portugal maintained their lead through the final minutes, securing a landmark victory. For Emma Hayes, this defeat represents only her third loss in her coaching tenure with the U.S. team. Looking ahead, the U.S. will face Portugal again on Sunday before concluding their international window with a friendly against New Zealand on October 29, 2025.