Thu Jul 03 00:10:00 UTC 2025: ## USWNT Dominates Ireland 4-0, Hayes Continues Roster Experimentation

**Cincinnati, OH** – The United States Women’s National Team (USWNT) secured a decisive 4-0 victory over Ireland on Sunday at TQL Stadium, marking their 600th win in program history. The match, however, was more than just a celebratory milestone; it served as another opportunity for coach Emma Hayes to assess and expand the team’s talent pool as she prepares for the 2027 World Cup.

Hayes, who took over the team just over a year ago, handed out two more first caps, bringing her total to an impressive 24 debuts in 24 games in charge. Defender Izzy Rodriguez and midfielder Sam Meza both made their USWNT debuts, with Rodriguez even finding the back of the net in her first international appearance.

“It’s so surreal,” Rodriguez told TNT at halftime, clearly emotional about the experience. “This team has been everything, and they’ve really welcomed me into this group.”

Joining Rodriguez on the scoresheet were forwards Lynn Biyendolo, Yazmeen Ryan, and Alyssa Thompson. Biyendolo, captaining the team for the first time, opened the scoring with a stunning volley in the 11th minute. Ryan tallied her first international goal in the 66th minute, while Thompson scored in the 87th minute, continuing her scoring streak after entering the game as a substitute.

In a bold move, Hayes completely changed the starting XI from the previous match against Ireland, marking only the seventh time in USWNT history such a drastic change has occurred. Ten players in the starting lineup had 10 caps or fewer, showcasing Hayes’ commitment to evaluating new talent.

“It’s not easy to go and change the [entire starting lineup] and perform and raise the bar,” Hayes said after the match, praising her players’ performance. “The players did that. I’m extremely proud of them.” Hayes also specifically called out the impressive performances of Meza and Rodriguez, citing Meza’s outstanding play in the pivot position and Rodriguez’s quality deliveries.

According to U.S. Soccer, Meza and Rodriguez became the 13th and 14th players of Hispanic descent to play for the USWNT.

The USWNT will face Canada on Wednesday in Washington, D.C., to conclude this international window. Hayes indicated that she will begin narrowing down the core of her roster during the next international window in October as preparations for the 2027 World Cup intensify.

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