At just 16 years old, Lily Yohannes made a remarkable international debut for the US women’s soccer team, leaving a lasting impression with a goal in the team’s 3-0 victory over South Korea. Yohannes, who plays for Dutch club Ajax, came on as a substitute in the second half and found the back of the net within 10 minutes of entering the field.
Expressing her emotions post-match, Yohannes described the experience as a dream come true, highlighting the incredible support from her teammates that made the moment even more special. She became the third-youngest player to score for the US women’s team, showcasing her undeniable talent and composure on the field.
New US manager Emma Hayes, who handed Yohannes her debut, praised the young midfielder’s maturity and confidence in her abilities. Having moved to the Netherlands with her family in 2017, Yohannes quickly caught the attention of Ajax and has been making waves in the football world ever since.
Hayes emphasized the impact of Yohannes’ exposure to European football at such a young age, noting her accelerated development and natural talent on the field. With goals from Crystal Dunn and Sophia Smith securing the win against South Korea, Yohannes’ debut strike added to the team’s success under Hayes’ leadership.
As the US women’s team looks to embark on a new era under Hayes following a disappointing performance in the previous Women’s World Cup, Yohannes is poised to play a vital role in the team’s future endeavors. With Hayes securing victories in her first two games in charge, the team is gearing up for upcoming challenges and aiming for further success on the international stage.