Emma Hayes Leads U.S. to 3-0 Win Over Zambia

Emma Hayes spent almost a decade in the U.S. before establishing a renowned career with Chelsea in her native England.

Emma Hayes, the former Chelsea boss managed the United States to a commanding 3-0 victory over Zambia in Nice as they launched their women’s Olympic football campaign. Trinity Rodman struck the crossbar early before scoring to give the U.S. a 1-0 lead after 17 minutes.

Mallory Swanson then scored twice in quick succession extending the lead to 3-0 within 25 minutes. Zambia’s chances diminished further when Pauline Zulu received a red card, leaving them with 10 players. Despite having a numerical advantage, the U.S. couldn’t add to their tally in the second half.

This match marked Emma Hayes’ first competitive game in charge of the U.S. following her departure from Chelsea, where she won the Women’s Super League title seven times during her 12-year tenure. On Thursday, Germany defeated Australia 3-0 in their Group B opener with goals from Marina Hegering, Lea Schuller and Jule Brand.

The United States will face Germany in Marseille on Sunday with the winner advancing to the quarter-finals. Host nation France also secured a win, defeating Colombia 3-2. Marie-Antoinette Katoto scored twice, and Kenza Dali added another, giving France a 3-0 lead.

Despite goals from Catalina Usme and Manuela Pavi Sepulveda, Colombia couldn’t equalize and Mayra Ramirez received a late red card. Spain, the World Cup winners, came from behind to beat Japan 2-1 with Aitana Bonmati and Mariona Caldentey scoring after Aoba Fujino’s opener.

Brazil won 1-0 against Nigeria thanks to a goal from Gabi Nunes while Canada came from behind to defeat New Zealand 2-1 despite conceding the first goal.