The US women's national soccer team was unable to contain Thailand's strong attack. Yet, the team's 13-0 defeat reflected a larger problem: women's football isn't supported like men's soccer. Thailand has no such program. The US team is well-funded, but Thailand isn't. The federations would rather give resources to their male counterparts that support women's footbal.
United States wins first game of 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup
The United States has won the title, after setting a new record with their 13-0 win over Thailand to kick off the tournament. The women's national team is now in third place after beating the Netherlands 2-0 on July 7. The Dutch were making their debut at the tournament after making it to the finals last year. South Africa is joined by Chile, Scotland and Jamaica.
Alex Morgan scored five goals in their opening match for the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team. That gives her 26 goals this season, which is 13 more than any other player. She was the 32nd different player to score for USA in the World Cup. Only France and Germany have more. Carli Lloyd and Michelle Akers also scored hat-tricks on behalf of the USA. Alex Morgan's opener tied the record of five goals in a World Cup match, which she shared with Michelle Akers.
Morgan scores five goals
The USA women's football team beat Thailand to begin their title defense. Morgan scored five goals in halftime, matching the record set four years ago by Michelle Akers against Canada. Thailand only managed to score two goals, and the US had 27% of the possession. In the second, Thailand lost 15-1 to the U.S. This result was favorable for the U.S. but Thailand refused to let Thailand take the lead.
Five goals were scored by the United States against Thailand, two of which came from the penalty spot. Morgan scored the first goal after Crystal Dunn's pass. Mewis took the second goal. Mewis played wide before Morgan tripped her. Morgan also assisted Lavelle with her second goal. Both goals were scored in the final minute.
Goalkeeper Sukanya Chor Charoenying
Sukanya Chor Charoenying, Thai goalkeeper, was at the top of her game when she stood in front the United States net against Thailand. The score was lopsided. She was called upon to make several saves. A ball that flew past her was eventually tipped aside by the United States. The pro-American crowd was so enthused by the score that they began a chorus of "Go USA!" All through the game.
The USWNT's victory over Thailand was defended by Carli Lloyd. Carli Lloyd, however, stood by the United States team and defended them against some mocking remarks. Lloyd offered words of encouragement and the United States goalkeeper thanked her. Lloyd was also thanked.
Pay gap in US soccer between women and men
With a stunning 2-0 win against the Netherlands, Sunday's shocker for the U.S. Women's Soccer Team was shocking the entire world. While the men have won four World Cups already, the women have not yet. Women have never been paid the same amount as men, despite winning four titles. This is one of many reasons the U.S. Soccer Federation denies women equal pay.
The long-standing issue of pay disparities between men/women in the US soccer teams has been a matter of contention. However, the recent performances by the United States have been the most notable. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand highlighted the team’s 13-0 win over Thailand. The US women have scored over the Thai team's goals in one World Cup game. It is a record by any nation.