U.S. WNT Opens Up 2018 With Win 

CHICAGO – In a crucial 2018 year ahead of World Cup Qualifying, the U.S. Women’s National Team started the year with a win, as Red Stars midfielder Julie Ertz netted the game-winning goal in the 5-1 victory against Denmark.

USA dropped early in the match while forward Nadia Nadim gave Denmark the lead in the 14^th minute. Off a corner kick, the ball sailed to the far post where Nadim headed it past Chicago goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher. This was the only goal against Naeher in the game, as the Danish failed to put any more shots on goal.

Just three minutes later, the U.S. struck back as forward Alex Morgan notched the equalizer. With this goal, the U.S. WNT had momentum.

In the 19^th minute, defender Abby Dalhkemper lofted the ball into the box, meeting the head of newcomer Tierna Davidson. As Davidson directed it toward the goal, Ertz made a sliding dive to volley the ball over Denmark’s goalkeeper. Ertz’ first goal of the year ended up being the game winner.

Moments into the second half, forward Mallory Pugh scored the first goal of her brace, finishing up her second goal in the 65^th minute. Crystal Dunn found the back of the net with less than 10 minutes remaining to finish the 5-1 scoreline.

Up next, the WNT will continue to prepare for WCQ as it will host England, Germany and France in the third-annual SheBelieves Cup in early March.