Naeher lets her actions speak for her
Alyssa Naeher always lets her actions do her talking. And boy, the softspoken U.S. goalkeeper’s actions can sure be loud.
The 10-year national team veteran and twotime Women’s World Cup winner had one of the strongest games of her career Wednesday night at the CONCACAF Women’s Gold Cup. Not only did she make three saves during a penalty shootout with Canada, she converted a penalty kick herself — tucking the ball neatly into the corner of the net.
The performance put the United States into the Gold Cup final against Brazil on Sunday at San Diego’s Snapdragon Stadium.
“Alyssa Naeher was just a beast,” forward Alex Morgan told reporters after advancing to the final. “I don’t even know how she pulled off all those saves. And then calmly, just with the side of her foot, passed the ball into the goal.”
Naeher is known for her calm and steady demeanor. She’s not totally quiet, however. Often in games she’s seen directing the teammates in front of her like a conductor leading an orchestra.
In the Gold Cup quarterfinals against Colombia, Naeher was celebrated for her 100th appearance for her country. She’s one of just three U.S. goalkeepers to reach the milestone. The U.S. is the world’s only women’s national team that can boast three goalkeepers with as many caps.
She got her 81st win and 61st career shutout in the national team’s 3-0 victory over Columbia. It was a key rebound game for the United States, which had a shocking 2-0 loss to Mexico to wrap up the group stage.
Ever humble, Naeher wasn’t about her personal milestones, instead pointing to the team for a crucial win.
“I’m just proud of the team for a huge win,” she