As the USWNT gets ready for the 2023 World Cup, they embarked on two friendlies against the Republic of Ireland. While the Americans had the team in green outmatched, the visitors had a solid game plan and stuck to it. They defended well and matched the speed and athleticism of the USA. In the end, the Stars and Stripes ground out a win thanks to a strong press that created a goal in the first half and a late penalty converted by Lindsey Horan.
The Americans lined up in the now familiar 4-3-3 with Alyssa Naeher in goal, a midfield three of Lindsey Horan, Rose Lavelle, and Andi Sullivan and Naomi Girma with Becky Sauerbrunn paired at centerback.