Lily Yohannes Shines in US Debut with Goal Against South Korea

Lily Yohannes, a teenager, had a debut to remember for the United States as the 16-year-old scored just nine minutes into her first appearance during a 3-0 friendly win against South Korea. The Ajax midfielder was introduced in the 72nd minute at Allianz Field in Minnesota and netted her first goal less than ten minutes later, finishing off a well-executed corner routine. Lily Yohannes, who declined an approach from the Netherlands to play for the US, is now the eighth-youngest player to debut for the US women’s team.

“It’s a dream come true, really,” Yohannes said. “I’ve imagined this scenario in my head so many times before the game, just thinking about coming on and scoring.” US manager Emma Hayes praised Yohannes, stating that she “doesn’t look like a 16-year-old” and that she has “really pushed” the midfielder in training. Crystal Dunn opened the scoring for the four-time Olympic champions in Saint Paul with Sophia Smith doubling the lead in the 67th minute.

This victory marks two wins from two for Hayes since she left Chelsea to take charge of the US team. Hayes ended her 12-year tenure as Chelsea manager in May having guided the Blues to their fifth consecutive Women’s Super League title and her seventh overall with the club. The 47-year-old Hayes says she feels “re-energized” since leaving Stamford Bridge to transition into international management.