“CONCACAF Is Not What It Was 14 Years Ago”- Alex Morgan Reflects on USWNT’s Hard Loss to Mexico

USWNT once again found themselves on the back foot. Moments ago, the American ladies suffered a 0-2 defeat against Mexico in the ongoing CONCACAF Women’s Gold Cup, Match 3 of Group A. As the news of their defeat spreads, Alex Morgan broke her silence on her nation’s poor display, acknowledging that ‘Mexico came to play today.’

The likes of Trinity Rodman, Sophia Smith, and Lynn Williams failed to score. Notably, Alex Morgan, who came on as a substitute in the latter half, also failed to make an impact. “We just didn’t play nearly at our best. I think we found some pockets here and there but not nearly enough, didn’t execute on the chances we had. I don’t think we tested the goalkeeper. We broke down way too easily and Mexico came to play today, so they played really well,” said Morgan in the post-match interview. Interestingly, the praise for Mexico didn’t end there. 

When asked about her feelings regarding CONCACAF raising its performance standards, Morgan expressed no surprise. She emphasized that leagues worldwide are striving to elevate the level of women’s soccer and acknowledged Mexico as a testament to that effort. “CONCACAF is not what it was 14 years ago when we had our last loss against Mexico,” added the San Diego Waves star. Despite the loss, the USWNT has progressed through the quarterfinals. Yet, Morgan has urged her side to pull up their socks for the next fixture.

For now, the results of the remaining matches will decide the next opponents of Twila Kilgore and Co. Notably, with this victory, Mexico also ended a major streak for the USWNT. 

Mexico puts an end to Alex Morgan and Co.’s 33-match streak 

Over the last 33 games, the USWNT has never conceded a goal in CONCACAF’s official matches. Unfortunately, Jacqueline Ovalle’s first-half strike in the 38th minute shattered the US side’s impressive feat. Notably, the 2019 World Champions had outscored their opponents 158-0 in all 33 games. Later, Mayra Pelayo-Bernal’s injury-time goal was the cherry on top for Mexico, which helped them clinch the triumph. 

Mexico emerged as the Group A leader following their victory. They are anticipated to confront the second or third seed from Group B, which are considered weaker opponents. Meanwhile, the USWNT is likely to face Brazil, the expected winner of the adjacent group. This certainly poses a problem for the 4X World Champions, as the upcoming tie is expected to be tough.

Whatever the case, there is no room for mistakes in the quarterfinals. Otherwise, the USWNT will find themselves facing another early elimination.

READ MORE: “Absolutely Shameful and Embarrassing” – USWNT’s Disappointing 2–0 Loss to Mexico in CONCACAF W Gold Cup Riles Up American Fans