Alyssa Naeher bids farewell to USWNT following dramatic win over Netherlands

On December 3, 2024, the United States Women's National Team faced the Netherlands in a significant match in The Hague, marking the end of Alyssa Naeher's international career. The game saw Lynn Williams score the decisive goal in the 71st minute, giving the U.S. a 2-1 victory after an initially challenging first half. In this match, Naeher, who captained the team, displayed her remarkable skills by making six saves, continuing to showcase her importance to the team until her final appearance. This match was significant not only for Naeher but for the team as they finished the year with an impressive record of 18 wins, 1 loss, and 4 draws, culminating in a remarkable 20-match unbeaten streak. The game itself was a tale of two halves, where the U.S. was largely outplayed during the first half but managed to equalize just before halftime when Netherlands defender Veerle Buurman inadvertently scored an own goal. Up to that point, the Dutch squad had dominated possession and outshot the Americans, setting the stage for a tense and gripping encounter. Naeher's career has been highlighted by significant achievements, including two World Cup titles and a gold medal from the 2024 Olympics. As the match progressed, the U.S. found their rhythm, and after halftime adjustments, they were able to capitalize on their opportunities, particularly with Williams' timely goal. Naeher's departure from the national team marks the end of an era for U.S. women's soccer, as she was an integral member of the squad since her debut in December 2014 against Argentina. She became a two-time World Cup champion, having played a pivotal role in the U.S. victories in 2015 and 2019. Her excellent performance during these tournaments, including a shutout in the 2019 final against the Netherlands, greatly contributed to her legacy within women's soccer. Head coach Emma Hayes has led the team through a successful period, achieving a 13-0-2 record in her 15 matches, including recent triumphs at the Paris Olympics. This match served as a reminder of the talent and determination present in the current U.S. squad, as they managed to overcome an initially unfavorable scenario against a competitive Dutch team ranked No. 11 in the world. The outcome not only solidified their impressive year but also honored the contributions of Naeher, who leaves the team as one of the sport's all-time greats.