Emma Sears USWNT

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Emma Sears had quite a debut for the U.S. Women's National soccer team on Sunday. 

The rookie for Racing Louisville FC scored a goal and had an assist as the U.S. rallied to defeat Iceland 3-1 in Nashville.

Sears entered the match in the 56th minute for her international debut for the U.S. She first found Lynn Williams on a touch toward the goal for an equalizer in the 72nd minute.

Lindsey Horan scored the go-ahead goal, but Sears added her own score three minutes into second half stoppage time. Alyssa Thompson sent a shot from the top of the penalty area that hit the left post and bounced back to Sophia Smith, whose shot was blocked and bounced toward the right side of the penalty area. That's when Sears placed a shot from 12 yards into the left-side netting.

Sears is just the fourth player in USWNT history to score a goal and have an assist in a debut. She is also the first USWNT player in over six years to have an assist in her international debut.

The 23-year-old was Louisville's second round pick in the 2024 NWSL Draft. She played collegiate soccer at Ohio State. 

Lynn Family Stadium will host the reigning Olympic gold medalists Oct. 30 for a friendly vs. Argentina, marking their first match in Louisville since 2004.

"I think it's going to be super emotional for me," Sears previously said of walking out at Lynn Family Stadium with the USWNT. "I'm sure it'll be a little bit of a roller coaster, but I'm super honored for the opportunity and to not only represent the club, but the city of Louisville.

Related Stories:

Copyright 2024 WDRB Media. All Rights Reserved.