USWNT vs Germany player ratings: Emma Hayes’ Sophia Smith-led attack dominates at Paris 2024 Olympics

The United States women’s national team beat Germany 4-1 on Sunday in the group stage of the Olympic women’s soccer tournament to book their place in the quarterfinals. It was only the second group game for Emma Hayes’ team, but their perfect record means their final group game against Australia will be all about whether they can win the group.

How did each player perform in the game? Take a look at our player ratings:

goalkeeper

Alyssa Naher

USA • Goalkeeper • #1

In the first few minutes, he made a solid save to keep the score level and prevent a goalless result. He correctly judged Germany’s first goal but was unable to save the long-range shot, but he did make another brilliant save after the 60th minute. Rating: 7.5

defender

Emily Fox

United States • D • #23

Made a tremendous effort to cover Germany’s Jule Brand. Was linked up with Trinity Rodman and Rose Lavelle on the wing. Rating: 7.5

Naomi Girma

United States • D • #4

He got off to a shaky start in the first few minutes of the game, but recovered quickly. He made some important tackles at the end of the first half and had full control of the situation. Rating: 8

Tierna Davidson

USA • D

A nervous moment in the opening minutes of the game, but he recovered and provided solid coverage alongside Girma. There was some knee-to-knee contact and he was substituted before half-time. Rating: 7

Crystal Dunn

USA • F • #19

Was reliable in coverage and was proactive in attack, getting a shot off in the first half. He blocked a cross solidly towards the end of the game and made good progress when he needed to. Was pushed to the attacking line in injury time and helped to finish the game off. Rating: 7.5

midfield player

Took some time to read the defence in the first half and got an unnecessary yellow card. Took the second half to calm down a bit. Rating: 6.5

Lindsey Horan

USA • M • #10

Didn’t get off to a great start with a poor back pass that led to Germany’s chance and a shot save by Naeher and struggled with a few turnovers. Eventually got into the game better but was more part of the collective effort than the individual brilliance we saw against Zambia. Rating: 7

Rose Lavell

USA • M • #16

She was the best midfielder in the group in the first half, with solid movement with and without the ball. She combined well with her teammates and covered long distances – even when other midfielders had to share space with her. Rating: 8

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Forward

Trinity Rodman

USA • F • #20

The Germans have little chance of containing Rodman. She was almost everywhere on the field and received several fouls. She constantly facilitated the game, provided the assist for the first goal and was involved in setting up the fourth goal. Rating: 8.5

Sophia Smith

USA • F • #11

Had an incredible first half with two goals, her first of the tournament, and made it look easy. One free shot and the other a long range shot that deflected over the keeper and into the net. Rating: 9

Mallory Swanson

USA • F

Was relentless with and without the ball. Made good decisions on the field and positioned herself smartly as she continued her run towards goal. She provided the assist for the fourth goal at the end of the game. Rating: 8.5

Substitutions

Lynn Williams

USA • F • #6

Came on late for Sophia Smith and immediately put herself in a good position to score the fourth goal. Rating: 7.5

Emily Sonnett

United States • D • #14

He stepped in for the injured Davidson at centre back and was immediately effective, helping to fend off German attacks and having the opportunity to see the goal. Rating: 7

Jenna Nightswonger

USA • D

Came on in injury time, didn’t have enough time to make an impression. Rating: N/A

A substitution in injury time, not enough time to make much difference. Rating: N/A

Head Coach

Emma Hayes: The USWNT coach was far more conservative with her substitution windows, using only one in the first half due to injuries. It was a good decision that paid off as the ideal starting lineup gradually came into play and enjoyed long periods of the game in her favor. Rating: 8