HARRISON, N.J. — Alyssa Thompson’s first U.S. women’s national team goal of 2026 proved to be key in the squad capturing its eighth SheBelieves Cup title.
Thompson scored an 82nd-minute winner as the USWNT edged Colombia 1-0 on Saturday, capping off an unbeaten tournament. The 21-year-old dialed up her own number in the second half, drilling a shot off the crossbar and in to break a frustrating deadlock for the hosts.
In what was her fifth goal overall between Chelsea and the USWNT this year, Thompson has continued to deliver big-time performances, no matter what the scenario.
“I think it’s been a tremendous year for Alyssa, for both club and country,” USWNT manager Emma Hayes said postmatch to reporters about Thompson. “The consistency in her play is standout for me, in terms of being able to do things over 90 minutes and do it game after game including a clutch moment today, which she’s been doing all year for Chelsea.”
“Talking to Emma, something I want to get better at is my decision-making in the final third, knowing when to shoot, when to pass, just making the right play for the team,” Thompson said in a mixed zone with reporters. “I feel like in that moment, it was the right decision to shoot.”
Thompson had an earlier chance in the half to shoot but opted not to. However, with her second opportunity, the in-form attacker delivered one of the goals of the tournament, sending Sports Illustrated Stadium bonkers with minimal time left to play.
Thompson’s move to WSL giants Chelsea has certainly boosted her confidence this season, but she also praised her club and international teammates for playing a part in it too.
“I think it’s grown a lot just knowing what I can do at international and also at club,” Thompson said. “Being able to go to Chelsea was a huge move for me. And honestly, [Naomi Girma] and [Catarina Macario] have been really helpful at Chelsea and just getting my confidence up.”
“Alyssa took that chance, it’s her bread and butter and roofed it bar down, we love to see that,” USWNT captain and veteran midfielder Lindsey Heaps said postmatch about Thompson’s decision-making.
Thompson will now head back to London for the resumption of her club schedule with Chelsea. The Blues are playing catch up in the WSL title race but next face Phallon Tullis-Joyce and Manchester United in the League Cup Final on March 15.
It will mark Thompson’s first opportunity to lift silverware with her new club and could potentially be a spark to a possible quadruple by season’s end.
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