A first ever senior international goal for promising young striker Michelle Cooper helped the US Women’s National Team (USWNT) to a 2-1 victory over Australia in the SheBelieves Cup on Sunday, setting up a decisive final-game showdown with Japan.

It was the fourth goal the USWNT scored this tournament and the second scored as a first-ever national team goal. Ally Sentnor scored her first national team goal in the victory against Colombia. Hayes' messaging to less capped players has been consistent and one that places the onus on players to seize the opportunity in front of them.

The United States women’s soccer team defeated Australia 2-1 in the invitational SheBelieves Cup on Sunday, putting themselves in a position for a record eighth title.