SheBelieves Cup Recap: Three Takeaways from Orlando as USWNT Reign Supreme U.S. wins second consecutive, fourth overall SheBelieves Cup With a 6-0 victory over Argentina, the United States Women’s National Team brought home their second consecutive SheBelieves Cup, making them the only nation to repeat as champions in the tournament. Brazil improved upon their 2019 […]

SheBelieves Cup Recap: Three Takeaways from Orlando as USWNT Reign Supreme

U.S. wins second consecutive, fourth overall SheBelieves Cup With a 6-0 victory over Argentina, the United States Women’s National Team brought home their second consecutive SheBelieves Cup, making them the only nation to repeat as champions in the tournament. Brazil improved upon their 2019 participation by finishing in second place – with Canada and Argentina rounding out the top four. While Rose Lavelle was named the tournament MVP, there were plenty of storylines from across the four nations to highlight from an action-packed two weeks of matches in Orlando.

Litany of NWSL talent on display for Argentina, Canada

While neither nation may not have the number they wished for next to their name at the beginning of this tournament, both sides trotted out players with plenty of potential – many of which will be of interest to National Women’s Soccer League fans.

Marianne Larroquette, the new forward for Kansas City NWSL, scored in the opening match of the tournament against Brazil. Her KC teammate, Desiree Scott captained a young Canadian and looked like she will be a standout when the NWSL season cools around. North Carolina Courage’s newest draftee, Deanne Rose, and Houston Dash’s Nichelle Prince earned significant playing time in the place of injured forward Christine Sinclair. Additionally, Sky Blue FC’s Evelyne Viens and Orlando Pride’s Jordyn Listro both received their first caps for the senior national team. A special feat, considering both played their collegiate ball just up the road in Tampa.

Highlighting the Canadian feats, Houston Dash midfielder Sophie Schmidt earned her 200^th cap for the Canadian side.

ORLANDO CITY, FL – FEBRUARY 18: Sophie Schmidt #13 of Canada and Kristie Mewis #22 of USA battle for a ball during a game between Canada and USWNT at Exploria Stadium on February 18, 2021 in Orlando City, Florida.

Debinha did Debinha things, as she always does

For the runners-up, North Carolina Courage midfielder Debinha was up to much of her old tricks. The 2019 NWSL Championship MVP netted two goals for the Brazilians, and was a force to be reckoned with in Pia Sundhage’s attack in each of the three games she appeared in. She was also named a finalist for the tournament’s Most Valuable Player award. The Brazilian looks in fine form heading into the year with NCC.

Megan Rapinoe returns to old form ahead of 2021 Challenge Cup

In a flurry of standout performances for the host nation, OL Reign forward Megan Rapinoe looked like she had not missed a beat in her first competitive tournament since the 2020 SheBelieves Cup. Starting the first and third matches for the Americans, Rapinoe helped the hosts to their second-consecutive SheBelieves Cup with three goals – and a beautiful tribute to Ashlyn Harris and Ali Krieger’s new addition to their family to top it off.