Shaw and Macário Fire USA Past Italy in Fort Lauderdale

The humid Florida evening at Chase Stadium set the perfect stage for what would become a masterclass in American attacking prowess. The United States secured a convincing 2-0 victory over Italy in this second international friendly, with early brilliance from Catarina Macário and a moment of magic from Jaedyn Shaw sealing a dominant performance that never truly looked in doubt.

Macário broke the deadlock in the 20th minute with a composed right-footed finish from the right side of the box, slotting the ball into the bottom left corner after excellent work from teenage sensation Lily Yohannes. The goal rewarded the USA's early pressure and set the tone for an evening of American control. Shaw then produced the moment that had the Fort Lauderdale crowd on their feet in the 41st minute, unleashing a thunderous right-footed strike from outside the box that flew into the top right corner. Alyssa Thompson's assist set up the spectacular effort that left Italian goalkeeper Francesca Durante with no chance.

The tactical battle saw the United States dominate through their midfield trio of Yohannes, Lindsey Heaps, and Shaw, who consistently found space between Italy's lines. Naomi Girma marshaled the American defense with authority, while Emily Fox provided width down the right flank. Italy's best moments came through Sofia Cantore's pace on the counter-attack, but the Azzurre struggled to create sustained pressure against a well-organized American backline.

The statistics told the story of American dominance, with the hosts enjoying nearly 66% possession while registering seven shots on target compared to Italy's solitary effort. Durante worked overtime in the Italian goal, making crucial saves to deny Yohannes in the 59th minute and Shaw in the 88th minute. Heaps came agonizingly close to adding a third when her effort struck the crossbar in the 57th minute, while Italy's best chance fell to Giulia Dragoni, whose effort sailed wide in the 58th minute.

The turning point came with Shaw's wonder strike just before halftime, effectively killing off any Italian hopes of a comeback. The goal showcased the depth of talent in the American squad and demonstrated why this young generation has generated such excitement among fans and coaches alike.

USWNT ends the year on a strong note and now take much need time off. They return January 26, 2026 against Paraguay.