USWNT Kick Off Olympics with Dominant Victory over Zambia

The United States women's soccer team made a strong statement in their Olympic opener, cruising to a 3-0 win over Zambia. Trinity Rodman, Mallory Swanson, and Sophia Smith each found the back of the net for the Americans.

The United States women's soccer team returned to the world stage with a vengeance, earning a 3-0 victory over Zambia in their opening match at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

The USWNT had a disappointing showing in last year's World Cup, being eliminated in the round of 16 after winning the previous two tournaments. However, they looked determined to put that behind them and started their Olympic campaign with a dominant performance.

USWNT Kick Off Olympics with Dominant Victory over Zambia

Trinity Rodman, in her Olympic debut, opened the scoring for the Americans in the 17th minute. Mallory Swanson doubled the lead just seven minutes later, and she added her second goal of the game in the 25th minute.

With Zambia already down three goals, their situation worsened when Pauline Zulu was sent off with a red card in the 33rd minute. The Zambian team was reduced to 10 players for the remainder of the match.

USWNT Kick Off Olympics with Dominant Victory over Zambia

Despite the numerical advantage, the USWNT continued to control the game. They created numerous chances but were unable to add to their lead.

After the match, head coach Emma Hayes admitted that she would have been disappointed with a 3-0 victory before the game. However, she recognized that it was a step in the right direction.

USWNT Kick Off Olympics with Dominant Victory over Zambia

"I think there's little things within that game, within the play, that we need to fine-tune, that we can just keep on growing with," Swanson said. "So, I think there's definitely those little things, and we'll address them and fix them and keep moving forward."

The United States will face Germany on Sunday in Marseille. A win would put them in a strong position to advance to the knockout stage.

The USWNT's victory over Zambia was a welcome sight for American fans. After the disappointment of the World Cup, the team looked reinvigorated and determined to prove that they are still the best in the world.

Rodman, Swanson, and Smith were all impressive in their performances. Rodman showed her versatility, playing both as a forward and a winger. Swanson was a constant threat on the left flank, and Smith provided a spark off the bench.

The defense also played well, with goalkeeper Casey Murphy making several key saves.

The United States has a long history of success in women's soccer, having won four World Cups and four Olympic gold medals. They will be looking to add to that tally in Paris 2024.

With their victory over Zambia, the USWNT has sent a clear message that they are a force to be reckoned with. They will be a major contender for the gold medal in Paris.