Catarina Macario shone brightly, scoring twice in the U.S. Women's National Team's (USWNT) dominant 3-0 victory over Italy in an international friendly held Friday night at Inter&Co Stadium in Orlando. The win marks the first of two matches between the teams, with the second slated for Monday in Fort Lauderdale.
The USWNT displayed a potent combination of dynamic offense and solid defense, securing their third consecutive victory in international friendlies. Olivia Moultrie set the tone early, finding the net just 68 seconds into the match. Rose Lavelle delivered a precise cross from the left, which Moultrie expertly finished with a left-footed shot. This was Moultrie's fifth international goal in her 11th appearance.
Despite dominating possession with 69% in the first half, the U.S. struggled to extend their lead initially. Italy's goalkeeper, Laura Giuliani, made eight saves, keeping her team in the game. Defender Naomi Girma, playing her first USWNT match in 149 days, showcased stellar defensive plays, preventing Italy from equalizing. One notable moment occurred when Girma thwarted Chiara Beccari's attempt on goal with a timely intervention.
Macario finally extended the lead in the 64th minute, receiving a pass from Sam Coffey and unleashing a left-footed shot past the Italian goalkeeper. Twelve minutes later, in the 76th minute, Macario struck again, this time assisted by 18-year-old Lily Yohannes, who had just entered the match. Macario's second goal was a right-footed curler from just inside the 18-yard box that nestled perfectly into the far bottom corner.
Macario's brace brought her total to a team-leading seven goals in 2025 and 15 goals in her 28 international appearances. This was also her fifth career brace. "It was a great win, it's always a pleasure being with this team," Macario said. "I feel so happy to be in this environment, and I feel like it really just helps you be the best version of yourself".
Claudia Dickey secured the shutout, making two saves in her fifth appearance for the senior team. The USWNT outshot Italy 18-7, with an 11-2 advantage in shots on target.
The match marked the first encounter between the USWNT and Italy since 2010. The USWNT record in Orlando remains perfect at 18 wins, 0 losses, and 0 draws. The team is building on the momentum from recent wins over Portugal and New Zealand in late October.
Looking ahead, the USWNT will face Italy again on Monday in Fort Lauderdale, concluding their international matches for 2025.
