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16-year-old Lily Johannes scored in her first game for the US women’s soccer team.
CNN
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For 16-year-old Lily Johannes, the soccer event was an international debut to remember after the teenager scored a goal in the match. American women’s team They beat South Korea 3-0 on Tuesday.
The youngster came on as a substitute in the second half of the friendly match and scored a goal within 10 minutes of the match and completed a well-executed corner kick in the 82nd minute.
The American, who plays for the Dutch club Ajax, seemed overcome with emotion while celebrating a goal with her other teammates.
“It’s a dream come true,” Johannes said after the game. Interviewafter being Third-youngest player Scoring for the US Women’s Team.
“I’ve played this scenario in my head, like how many times before this game? Just the thought of coming and scoring.
“It was really amazing support from my teammates with everyone running towards me which made it even more special. I’m really happy, I’m really happy.
Johannes was first played by the new American manager. Emma HayesHe impressed with his average last training camp.
“You don’t look like a 16-year-old,” Hayes said after the game ESPN. “She knows how I feel about her. I really pushed her and wanted her on this team.
Bailey Hillesheim/ICON Sportswire/AP
After Johannes scored her first goal, the American players celebrated together.
The young midfielder was born in Virginia He moved to the Netherlands With her family in 2017.
Her talent quickly caught the attention of football powerhouse Ajax and it wasn’t long before the sensation joined the first team.
In November last year, she became the youngest player to start a group game in the Women’s Champions League at the age of 16.
She is a natural soccer player who is confident in her abilities. I think playing in Europe helped her, accelerated her,” Hayes added, per ESPN.
“She had exposures that many 16-year-old Americans don’t have, and it shows. He was mature even at a young age.
Goals from Crystal Dunn and Sophia Smith put the USA firmly in control of the tournament. Taegeuk womenbefore John’s strike secured another successful night for the Americans.
Hayes will hope the youngster will be a vital part of the squad after failing to reach at least the semi-finals for the first time last year to usher in a new era for the four-time Women’s World Cup winners.
The former Chelsea manager has now won his first two games, both against South Korea.