Emma Hayes emphasised that age is merely a number after Lo’eau LaBonta became the oldest debutant in US history during a 3-0 friendly victory over China.
At 32 years and 74 days, LaBonta made her first appearance for the USWNT as a substitute in the 70th minute at Allianz Field, Minnesota. By then, Hayes’ team had already secured their lead.
Catarina Macario opened the scoring in the 28th minute by capitalising on a loose ball. Seven minutes later, she assisted Sam Coffey to double the lead. Macario has been instrumental, contributing to goals in eight of her last nine international starts, with eight goals and five assists. Lindsey Heaps’ header early in the second half sealed the win against China.
LaBonta received high praise from Hayes post-match. She captained Kansas City Current to the top of NWSL standings after ten games this season. “I know that a lot has been made about [LaBonta’s age], but again, I watch the league,” Hayes said. “I watch every game, and she was a player who didn’t give up on herself.”
Manchester United’s Phallon Tullis-Joyce achieved a rare feat by becoming only the third goalkeeper to start her first two USWNT games with clean sheets. This accomplishment places her alongside Mary Harvey and Briana Scurry in this exclusive club.
Hayes’ squad will next face Jamaica at Energizer Park in St. Louis on Tuesday. They are also set to play against the Republic of Ireland and Canada later in June and early July. These matches are crucial for maintaining momentum and assessing team dynamics.
In an interview with TBS, LaBonta expressed that her international debut validated her efforts at club level. “You have to have a short-term memory, whether it’s wins or losses,” she stated. “And when there’s a loss, you let it sink in, but you learn from it, and you move on.”
LaBonta’s positive attitude extends beyond the field as she maintains a cheerful presence among teammates. “You know me, I’m always joking around in the locker room,” she said. Despite her light-hearted nature, she remains dedicated to her craft.
Hayes highlighted LaBonta’s maturity and experience as valuable assets to the team environment. “I think her maturity… you could see that was there,” Hayes noted. Her presence has been beneficial around camp, and Hayes looks forward to seeing more from her.
The upcoming matches present opportunities for further development and testing strategies against diverse opponents. The team’s performance will be closely watched as they prepare for future competitions on an international stage.