USWNT’s future is here? Sentnor stuns while Macario makes her comeback | OneFootball

The USWNT began the SheBelieves Cup 2025 in good standing with a dominating 2-0 win over Colombia in Houston. The game was Catarina Macario's highly publicized return since she scored, and Ally Sentnor had her first impressive match for the senior team.

This victory was against a tough opponent that has been on the rise in the past few years and also a new era under head coach Emma Hayes. With stars returning and important debuts, the USWNT showed that its next generation is already in the making.

Macario shines and shows she's ready to reclaim her position

Finally, after over two years, Catarina Macario is back on the scoresheet. The forward, who was injured severely in 2022, scored for the national team again. She scored in the 33rd minute, following a precise cross from Yazmeen Ryan. Macario timed her run to perfection, beat her marker, and hit past the Colombian goalkeeper with precision.

It was her first goal since her return to action, something that could be an indicator of her return as a main contributor for the USWNT. With solid performances for Chelsea and now an announcing goal for the national team, Macario is in a position to regain her reputation as an international sensation.

Ally Sentnor is here to stay

At just 20 years old, Ally Sentnor demonstrated she's ready for the big leagues. In her first start for the senior national team, she painted an absolute picture of a beauty from distance to seal the U.S. victory.

The moment came in the 60th minute when Sentnor intercepted the ball off of midfield, sped down the middle flank, and, without hesitation at all, released a cannon into the top right-hand corner by Katherine Tapia.

It wasn't just a goal — it was a statement. A moment that proclaimed her as a legitimate attacking presence for the USWNT for years to come.

Hayes' squad is coming together

The USWNT transition was in full effect in Houston. Jane Campbell, who is now claiming the No. 1 goalkeeper spot after Alyssa Naeher retired, posted a clean sheet in her return to the team.

The roster makeup also brought out the combination of experience and youth, which suggested that the team is not losing its fire despite the generational shift.

Colombia was promising but didn't have firepower

Against menacing attacks such as those of Real Madrid's Linda Caicedo and Chelsea's Mayra Ramírez, Colombia came ready to prove their worth. The offense never truly posed a threat to the U.S., though, however. Early in each half of play, they did apply some pressure, though. The U.S. backline remained composed, however, not once giving the Colombian attack a shot on net.

Their next challenge will be Australia

The SheBelieves Cup rolls on February 23, with the USWNT facing Australia at State Farm Stadium in Arizona. The Matildas are coming from a brutal 4-0 loss to Japan and will be looking for redemption.

On their own, they have their momentum going, and key players are making their marks, the USWNT enters the match feeling confident and ready to take one step closer to the title.