USWNT Salvages 2-2 Draw vs. Spain After Epic Second-Half Comeback
The USWNT avoided a second consecutive 2-0 loss to Spain by drawing 2-2 in Chester, Pennsylvania, on October 13. Ashley Sanchez and Mallory Swanson scored in the second half to erase a 2-0 deficit created by Alexia Putellas and Salma Paralluelo. The result highlights the US team's resilience but also exposes defensive vulnerabilities against the world’s top-ranked side ahead of 2027 World Cup qualification.
Key points
- Spain took a 2-0 lead in the first half with goals from Alexia Putellas and Salma Paralluelo, mirroring their 2-0 win in Washington, D.C. on October 10.
- Ashley Sanchez scored the USWNT’s first goal in the 50th minute, ending a 1,648-day international scoring drought.
- Mallory Swanson scored the equalizer in the 86th minute, her first goal since the 2024 Olympic gold medal match, ending an 801-day drought.
- The USWNT led in total shots (15-12) and shots on goal (6-5) despite Spain holding 56% possession, indicating a strong second-half performance.
- Head coach Emma Hayes acknowledged the team’s struggles but noted progress, stating, 'We are much closer to them than we were three years ago.'
- The USWNT faces El Salvador in the Concacaf W Championship quarter-finals on November 27, with 2027 World Cup qualification at stake.
Background
The USWNT had lost 2-0 to Spain in Washington, D.C. on October 10, marking their third loss in six games. Both matches were friendlies ahead of the 2027 World Cup, with the US team missing key players like Naomi Girma and Sam Coffey. The October 13 match was the second of two friendlies, with the US team making four lineup changes, including starting Phallon Tullis-Joyce in goal and Ashley Sanchez in midfield.
How outlets are covering it
Bleacher Report emphasized the USWNT’s strong second-half performance and statistical dominance in shots and corners, framing the draw as a positive outcome. The Guardian highlighted the defensive vulnerabilities and the significance of the return of Sanchez and Swanson, noting the team’s struggle against Spain’s possession-based style. NBC News focused on the individual achievements of Swanson and Sanchez, particularly their long scoring droughts, and the emotional impact of the comeback. US Soccer provided detailed roster and statistical context, emphasizing the team’s depth and the importance of the upcoming Concacaf W Championship match against El Salvador.
Why it matters
The draw against Spain, the world’s top-ranked team, signals the USWNT’s ability to compete at the highest level but also underscores the need for defensive improvements. The result provides a crucial test before the 2027 World Cup, with the US team needing to qualify through the Concacaf W Championship. The return of key players like Sanchez and Swanson offers hope, but the defensive lapses in both matches against Spain highlight areas for development.
What to watch
The USWNT will face El Salvador in the Concacaf W Championship quarter-finals on November 27 in Mansfield, Texas, with 2027 World Cup qualification at stake. The team will also return to World Cup qualification in late November, with the 2027 World Cup in Brazil just 255 days away.
- USWNT vs. Spain Score, Highlights, Stats and Reaction Bleacher Report
- USA 2-2 Spain (Oct 13, 2026) Game Analysis ESPN
- USWNT returnees earn 2-2 draw against Spain, an early World Cup wake-up call The Guardian
- Mallory Swanson nets first goal since Olympics as USWNT draws 2-2 with Spain NBC News
- After Setback in Washington, D.C., USWNT Look to Rebound Against World Champions in Philly US Soccer
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