The Mexico Women’s National Team achieved a historic victory over the USWNT, marking a significant moment in the 2024 W Gold Cup group stage. Despite the USWNT securing a spot in the knockout stage and having little at stake, Mexico’s dominant performance secured their position as group winners. This marked the second time that Mexico has defeated the United States Women’s National Team in their 43 encounters. Although the USWNT maintains a series lead with 40 wins and a draw, this victory signifies a turning point for Mexican women’s soccer.
The 2-0 loss cannot be dismissed by the USWNT, especially given the strong lineup fielded by interim head coach Twila Kilgore, consisting of experienced tournament players. However, it was Mexico that showcased dominance and controlled most of the opportunities. In the first half, Mexico absorbed the USWNT’s possession-based strategy, with a solid defense thwarting any significant American chances. Despite a shot from right-back Emily Fox, expertly saved by Esthefanny Barreras, the United States failed to break through.
A historic moment unfolded as Jacqueline Ovalle scored for Mexico. Exploiting poor defending from the USWNT, Ovalle seized the ball in the final third. In a one-on-one with USWNT goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher, Ovalle skillfully chipped the ball into the net with her left foot. This marked the first time Mexico led against the United States since their previous and only victory in November 2010 during Women’s World Cup qualifying.
In the dying moments of the second half, Mayra Pelayo, born in California and a product of the USWNT youth system, dealt the final blow. With the USWNT pressing for an equalizer, Pelayo unleashed a curled effort from 25 yards, beating Naeher and securing a monumental result for La Tri.
This victory not only ends Mexico’s 13-year, 16-game losing streak against the USWNT but also represents the first time the United States women’s team has suffered a defeat to a CONCACAF opponent on home soil in 24 years. Additionally, it marks the USWNT’s first loss in a game played in California.
The raucous crowd, predominantly supporting Mexico in Carson, CA, witnessed a potential turning point for Mexico in women’s football. While Mexico’s men’s team has consistently excelled in the men’s World Cup, the women’s team has struggled, never advancing beyond the group stage in previous tournaments and failing to qualify for the 2019 and 2023 Women’s World Cups.
With nine players aged 25 or younger, the Mexico Women’s National Team now has the opportunity to capitalize on this win over the USWNT for further development. Players like Ovalle, approaching 50 appearances with La Tri, exemplify the team’s rising talent.
In the immediate aftermath, Mexico’s triumph positions them favorably for the quarterfinals of the W Gold Cup. Facing a potentially easier opponent among the third-place finishers in the group stage, Mexico eyes the chance to claim their first competitive trophy at a major level. This victory not only marks a historic achievement for Mexican women’s soccer but also opens doors for future success on the international stage.
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