USWNT Survives Uneven Performance Against Argentina, Rodman Injured

Lindsey Heaps and Jaedyn Shaw scored in the 2-0 win, but the team's experimental lineup led to an inconsistent display as Trinity Rodman's status remains unclear.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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The U.S. women's national team defeated Argentina 2-0 in their opening SheBelieves Cup match, with goals from Lindsey Heaps and Jaedyn Shaw. However, the experimental lineup and tactics led to an uneven performance, and the team suffered injuries to Trinity Rodman and Lily Reale in the second half. Head coach Emma Hayes embraced a spirit of experimentation, rotating through her options and trialing new tactical ideas, but the win was marked by concerns over Rodman's fitness as she was forced off the field after being kneed in the back.

Why it matters

The USWNT's performance and injuries raise questions about the team's depth and readiness for upcoming World Cup qualifiers and the 2027 World Cup. Rodman's status is particularly concerning, as she has dealt with back issues in the past, and any long-term absence could impact both the national team and her club, the Washington Spirit, as the NWSL season approaches.

The details

Heaps and Shaw scored on either side of halftime to secure the win, but the USWNT struggled at times with their experimental lineup. Fringe players like Emma Sears and Jameese Joseph had their moments, while midfielder Claire Hutton's stock continues to grow. However, the team appeared disconnected at times, particularly in the backline, and managed just six shots, the lowest figure since a SheBelieves Cup victory over Australia a year ago.

  • The match took place on Sunday, March 2, 2026.
  • The USWNT will resume play in the SheBelieves Cup on Wednesday, March 5, 2026, against Canada.

The players

Emma Hayes

The head coach of the U.S. women's national team, who embraced a spirit of experimentation in the lineup and tactics against Argentina.

Trinity Rodman

The 23-year-old forward for the USWNT and the Washington Spirit, who was forced off the field in the second half after being kneed in the back.

Lily Reale

A USWNT player who was substituted in the second half after suffering an ankle injury from a hard tackle.

Emma Sears

A forward for the USWNT who has been making a strong case for a spot on the World Cup roster, contributing an assist on the opening goal.

Claire Hutton

A 20-year-old midfielder for the USWNT who has quickly become one of the team's most important players, bringing more balance to the midfield when she was introduced as a substitute.

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What they’re saying

“Haven't seen her. Haven't seen her. She's come off the field. She's in the locker room. I don't generally see the team until they've had their debrief about an hour and a half after the game so I can't give you one. Don't know it.”

— Emma Hayes, Head Coach, U.S. Women's National Team

What’s next

The USWNT will resume play in the SheBelieves Cup on Wednesday, March 5, 2026, against Canada, who defeated Colombia 4-1 on Sunday. The team will be awaiting updates on the severity of Trinity Rodman's injury, which could impact both the national team and her club, the Washington Spirit, as the NWSL season approaches.

The takeaway

The USWNT's experimental lineup and tactics against Argentina led to an uneven performance, highlighting the team's depth and readiness for upcoming challenges. The injury to Trinity Rodman is a major concern, as her fitness could have significant implications for both the national team and the Washington Spirit as the NWSL season nears.