Ireland Fall to Heavy Defeat in Denver Ireland’s Girls in Green outclassed by USA in Denver match, suffering a tough 4-0 loss in a friendly played under intense heat and altitude in the early hours of Friday. USA coach Emma Hayes rested most of her European-based stars except Chelsea’s Naomi Girma, allowing NWSL’s rising talents to step up, and they delivered with confidence and energy.
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USA Take Early Control Houston Dash defender Avery Patterson scored the opening goal in the 18th minute with a well-placed header from a Rose Lavelle cross after Ireland switched off at a short corner. Just before halftime, Sam Coffey doubled the lead with a calm left-footed strike after skilfully moving past defenders. Despite Ireland’s efforts, including strong defending from Courtney Brosnan, Anna Patten, Caitlin Hayes, and Jessie Stapleton, they struggled to hold possession under the USA’s relentless pressing.
Second Half Dominance The USA maintained their control after the break, adding a third goal seven minutes into the second half through Rose Lavelle, who finished off a swift team move from close range. Alyssa Thompson then made it 4-0 in the 63rd minute with a brilliant solo effort, cutting inside and curling a shot in off the post. Ireland entered the match already without key players like Denise O’Sullivan, Megan Campbell, Katie McCabe, Aoife Mannion, Heather Payne, and Leanne Kiernan, making the task even harder for Carla Ward’s side.
Late Efforts and Future Focus The USA continued to push for more goals, with Olivia Moultrie striking the bar and Emily Sonnett coming close, but the score remained 4-0. Erin Healy made her senior debut for Ireland late in the game but had little opportunity to impact the match. Ireland will now look to regroup quickly as they prepare to face the world’s number one ranked side again in Cincinnati on Sunday, hoping to learn and respond after a challenging night in Denver.
