LOUISVILLE, Kentucky — Naomi Girma scored her first two international goals and the United States beat Argentina, 3-0, in an exhibition match Wednesday night, the team’s final game of the year on American soil.

It was the third game in six days for the United States, which also won the first two against Iceland. The matches were the first for the United States since the team won the gold medal at the Paris Olympics last summer.

Girma, a 24-year-old defender, scored with a header in the 37th minute, then raised her arms and smiled as American coach Emma Hayes applauded her. Girma played every minute of the French Olympic tournament.

“The ball landed right in front of me, it was cool,” Girma said. “I thought, I don’t think I can miss this. “It fell right on my head.”

Girma played a big role in an own goal that put the United States up 2-0 before halftime. She headed a Rose Lavelle corner kick and the ball was deflected into the goal by Argentina’s Aldana Cometti.

Girma made it 3-0 with another header in the 49th minute. She then ran to the bench and hugged her former Stanford teammate, Sophia Smith, on the bench.

“I feel like every time someone gets their first goal, it’s always a big joy and the whole team gets excited,” Girma said. “So it was fun to get mine tonight.”

Hayes changed the lineup against Argentina at Lynn Family Stadium in Louisville, resting players due to the final games of the National Women’s Soccer League regular season this weekend with playoff spots and qualifying still up for grabs. .

Three newcomers started: goalie Mandy Haught, Eva Gaetino and Alyssa Malonson. It was the first time in 23 years that three or more players started in their debuts for the national team.

Lavelle, named match captain, was previously honored for having made 100 appearances for the national team. He reached the milestone in June.

“It was kind of a victory tour, so we got three solid wins and a lot of celebration and proud moments for the individuals,” defender Emily Fox said.

The United States will close the year with a pair of games in Europe. The Americans will face England on November 30 at Wembley Stadium before taking on the Netherlands in The Hague on December 3.

“We’re obviously excited to go to Europe and face two great opponents,” Girma said. “I think now it’s about turning the page on this celebration and looking forward to 2027, and trying to make sure we start building things now.”

Originally Posted: October 30, 2024 at 7:16 p.m. PDT