The Inaugural SheBelieves Cup got underway today with a double header in Tampa, Florida. With four of the toughest teams in soccer participating, fans swarmed Raymond James Stadium to catch the action. Germany and France faced off first, both teams finding it hard to break through the others defense. The only goal scored came late in the second half from German defender Leonie Maier who put it in off a rebound in the 83rd minute for the win. This was Maier’s sixth international goal.
The USA also came out on top defeating England in a physical match that had the score even until the second half. Both the US and England held possession well but squandered chances until substitute Crystal Dunn entered the game for the US. With a stunning move in the 72nd minute Dunn ripped a shot that sailed perfectly into the upper right of the goal, giving English goalkeeper Karen Bardsley little chance for a save. It was Dunn’s 11th international goal.
The tournament resumes in Nashville, Tennessee this Sunday with another double header. First the USA will face off against France and then Germany takes on England. You can catch the US game on ESPN3 starting at 12pm Pacific.