Emma Hayes praises USWNT's persistence in long win over Mexico

The pre-Olympic friendly between the US and Mexico women's national teams was a real rollercoaster of emotions. Despite dominating the game, the victory was hard-fought, with the saving goal coming only in the second half. Saturday's match marked the third consecutive victory under the direction of coach Emma Hayes, who is molding an increasingly efficient but not yet perfect team.

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The game began with the USWNT imposing their pace. Mexican goalkeeper Esthefanny Barreras, with spectacular saves, prevented the score from opening up in the first few minutes. Forwards Smith, Trinity Rodman and Mallory Swanson pressed, but Barreras was in inspired form, thwarting the plans of the US players. The Mexican defense, led by Karen Luna, was resilient despite the overwhelming attack of the Americans.

The Mexican team seemed determined not to repeat the fiasco of the Concacaf W Gold Cup group stage, where they beat the USA 2-0. On Saturday, however, it was the hosts' turn to show their superiority. The Americans, thirsty for sporting revenge, dominated the field, but the ball still wouldn't go in. Barreras, a native of Phoenix, Arizona, who plays for Pachuca, defended as if her life depended on it, especially in an incredible save in the 22nd minute, when Smith almost scored.

But there's no denying that, despite their dominance, the American attack still needs to sharpen its aim. Several clear chances were wasted. Smith, for example, had multiple opportunities, but only managed to score at the sixth attempt. This lack of efficiency could prove costly at the Olympics, where every goal is crucial. Emma Hayes acknowledged this, highlighting the need to improve her finishing. After all, in a high-level competition, you can't afford to waste chances like that.

"You just have to look at it from an xG perspective at the end of the game: it's two points and something and it should be a lot higher because, for the chances we create, we're not hitting the frame enough. I still think it's something to add, but I think the difference in momentum from the first half to the second half was even greater for us. Much more controlled," said Hayes post-match.

In the second half, the Americans' persistence was finally rewarded. In the 63rd minute, Sophia Smith managed to break through the Mexican blockade, scoring a beautiful goal that sealed the victory for the USA. Lavelle, with a precise long pass, started the move that culminated in the goal. Rodman and Swanson played an active part in the build-up, which Smith finished off masterfully. This goal not only secured the victory, but also showed the effectiveness of the American attack when well orchestrated.

This victory, despite guaranteeing an unbeaten run of eight consecutive games, reveals a team that still has a lot of fine-tuning to do before the Olympics. Smith, who has now scored 20 goals in his career, acknowledged that he could have scored more. "I should have scored a few more to start with, and I hold myself to a higher standard than that," Smith said after the game.

Preparation for the Olympics continues, with the team facing Costa Rica in their next farewell match before the Games. It's a crucial opportunity to fine-tune the final details and enter the competition with the confidence needed to go for the gold medal. The opener against Zambia in Nice, France, will be a real test to see if the lessons learned will be put into practice.