Ashley Sanchez Sparks USWNT's 2-2 Spain Draw as 20-goal NWSL Form Earns Recall
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · Oct 14
Ashley Sanchez Sparks USWNT's 2-2 Spain Draw as 20-goal NWSL Form Earns Recall
3 articles · Updated · The New York Times · Oct 14
Summary
1,552 days after her last U.S. goal, Ashley Sanchez scored to ignite a comeback from 2-0 down as the USWNT drew No. 1 Spain 2-2 in Chester.
The 27-year-old had been recalled for the first time since January 2025 and made her first start under Emma Hayes after a standout NWSL season with 20 goals in 27 games.
Mallory Swanson finished the rally with an 86th-minute equalizer — her first U.S. goal since the 2024 Olympics and since becoming a mother nearly a year ago.
Hayes said the team needed experienced players to bridge a gap between senior regulars and less-tested options, with Sanchez's display strengthening her case for a bigger role.