Rodman Shines as USWNT Cruises Past Paraguay in Carson

By Wendy Pintor

Trinity Rodman put an exclamation point on a milestone week as the U.S. women’s national team delivered a dominant 6-0 victory over Paraguay in Saturday’s friendly at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.

Wearing the captain’s armband for the first time, Rodman scored in the 56th minute as the USWNT exploded after halftime, netting five second-half goals to turn a tight contest into a runaway result. Head coach Emma Hayes’ side showed patience early before overwhelming Paraguay with pace, movement, and depth.

The breakthrough came just before the break when Reilyn Turner found the net in first-half stoppage time, marking a memorable debut goal for the Portland Thorns forward. From there, the floodgates opened. Ally Sentnor struck twice in the second half, while Emma Sears capped the scoring in the 72nd minute. Paraguay’s Fiorella Martínez was also credited with an own goal amid sustained U.S. pressure.

Much of the night’s focus centered on Rodman, who stepped into a leadership role only two days after signing a historic three-year contract extension with the Washington Spirit. The deal ended months of speculation surrounding her future amid interest from European clubs and ongoing conversations about the NWSL salary structure.

Saturday marked Rodman’s first appearance with the national team since a 2025 friendly against Brazil — another match in which she found the scoresheet. Her goal against Paraguay was her 12th international strike in her 48th cap, celebrated with a playful dance toward the U.S. bench that quickly lit up the stadium.

The match was the first of two fixtures closing out the team’s January camp. The USWNT will remain in California to face Chile in Santa Barbara on Tuesday night.

Several regulars were unavailable, with European-based players continuing their club seasons and Gotham FC players absent as they prepare for the final stage of the Women’s Champions Cup in London.

Before kickoff, the federation honored Christen Press, recognizing her retirement and remarkable international career. A two-time World Cup champion and Olympic bronze medalist, Press leaves behind a legacy of excellence on the field and leadership off it, including her role in the fight for equal pay and improved standards across the women’s game.