Emma Hayes’ homecoming set the stage for a thrilling match, and it certainly delivered. Things took a slightly controversial turn in the 66th minute which left many of the USWNT fans fuming. The drama unfolded when a ball deflected off Alex Greenwood’s abdomen onto her shoulder inside the box. The on-field referee initially blew the whistle for a handball but VAR overturned the decision. 

It was a significant game for Emma Hayes, who was returning to Wembley, a stadium that had witnessed many of her triumphs during her 12-year tenure at Chelsea. The match, which had so much promise, ended in a goalless draw, with both teams unable to capitalize on their chances. However, it was after an hour that the drama unfolded on the pitch. 

It was Yazmeen Ryan’s shot which was blocked by Greenwood. While the VAR decision was correct, fans were irate over the referee’s premature whistle, with many claiming it cost the USWNT a scoring opportunity, if the play had continued.

Minute 66: Referee’s whistle raises eyebrows 

Sam Coffey who was in fantastic form for the Stars and Stripes managed to snatch the ball from Georgia Stanway with Ryan shooting it straight toward Greenwood who chested it down. However, in the referee’s eyes, it was an infringement who pointed to the spot. Fans vented on X (formerly known as Twitter) whether it was the correct decision.

With VAR intervening, many began to question if the referee had blown the whistle too soon. Several believed the referee should have let the play unfold, leaving it to the fourth official to communicate any penalty decision via the earpiece.

The situation was further complicated when the referee spent considerable time reviewing the monitor before overturning the decision. Stanaway breathed a sigh of relief as the play continued with the goalkeeper getting the drop ball. 

While the VAR did its job, the USWNT ultimately couldn’t capitalize on their chances, but fans are likely to remember this moment. 

All the winners and losers

Mary Earps had an impressive game with a series of saves in contrast to Alyssa Naeher who had to save only one shot on target the entire game. Despite Emma Hayes not having her full roster, including the ‘triple espresso’ of Sophia Smith, Mallory Swanson, and Trinity Rodman, the Three Lionesses struggled to make a significant impact on home soil. 

For the USWNT, Naomi Girma was a rock at the back, helping Naeher secure her 10th shutout (clean sheet) of the year, marking her most clean sheets in any year for the national team. Sam Coffey dominated the midfield and provided stability for her side. However, Emma Sears and Lindsey Horan couldn’t make a major impact in the match.

Both players will have another opportunity to prove themselves in the final friendly against the Netherlands. For Hayes, the match was a near full-circle moment. While the match ended in a goalless draw, the homecoming will hold dear to her heart.