The U.S. Women’s National Team kicked off its 2018 campaign with a convincing 5-1 win over EURO Women’s runner-up Denmark on Sunday night. The match took place at San Diego City Stadium, welcoming over 17,500 fans to the first international friendly of the new year.
Starting on the backline for the U.S. was newly committed Utah Royals FC defender, Kelley O’Hara, who played all 90 minutes in the win. The game served as O’Hara’s 105th cap for the stars and stripes, making her the 36th player in USWNT history to pass the century mark.
O’Hara held solid on the defensive line, winning tackles against Denmark’s attack, and clearing the ball out of the box. She helped create several opportunities that would ultimately result in State's victory.
Denmark struck early, scoring on a set-piece from former NWSL forward, Nadia Nadim, in the 14th minute - but the one goal lead would be short lived. The U.S. responded by scoring twice through Alex Morgan and Julie Ertz before the half-time whistle to overturn the deficit and head into the locker room with the lead. In the second half, U.S. striker Mallory Pugh added two goals — her first career brace — followed by the fifth and goal by Crystal Dunn.
Up next for O’Hara and the rest of USWNT is the third annual SheBelieves Cup, the most elite four-team tournament in the world, from March 1-7 in Columbus, Ohio, Harrison, New Jersey, and Orlando, Florida.
O’Hara will be making her Utah Royals FC debut at Rio Tinto Stadium this April. Tickets for the 2018 Utah Royals FC season are now on sale at www.RSL.com/NWSL or by calling 844.Real.Tix.
