Brief
US women rally to 2‑2 draw with World Cup champions Spain in Chester
The United States equalised late in the friendly, ending a second‑half surge that highlighted the team's resilience.
By Felo News Desk · Published
In Chester, Pennsylvania, the U.S. women’s national team fought back from a two‑goal deficit to finish 2‑2 with defending World Cup champion Spain on Oct. 13, 2026, according to the New York Post.
What happened
Spain took a 2‑0 lead early, with forward Salma Paralluelo scoring twice within five minutes, the second assisted by Alexia Putellas. The United States responded in the second half: Sophia Wilson delivered a pass to Ashley Sanchez, who scored to make it 2‑1. In the 86th minute, Mallory Swanson, playing her first match since the 2024 Olympic gold‑medal game and after having a child, netted the equaliser, prompting a celebration with Jaiden Howell.
What the reports add
The article notes that Spain’s star Aitana Bonmatí was absent due to lingering leg pain from a previous fracture, which may have influenced the match dynamics. It also mentions that the U.S. had previously lost 2‑0 to Spain three days earlier in Washington, making the draw a modest improvement.
What was said
U.S. coach Emma Hayes said, “They’re world class, we’re still in progress,” and added that Spain are deserving champions. Midfielder Jaiden Howell described the team’s effort as “the U.S.’s DNA… grit and fire and never‑say‑die mentality,” while Lindsey Heaps called the matches an “incredible experience” and expressed disappointment at not securing a win.
How it came about
The two friendlies were scheduled as part of the U.S. preparation for the upcoming Concacaf W Championship in November, which will launch their World Cup qualification campaign. The matches also serve as a benchmark against the reigning champions ahead of the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Key facts
- Spain led 2‑0 early with goals from Salma Paralluelo (two) and an assist by Alexia Putellas. (nypost.com)
- Ashley Sanchez scored for the U.S. after a pass from Sophia Wilson. (nypost.com)
- Mallory Swanson scored the equaliser in the 86th minute, her first goal since the 2024 Olympic final. (nypost.com)
- Coach Emma Hayes praised Spain’s quality and called the U.S. “still in progress.” (nypost.com)
- The match was a friendly in Chester, Pa., on Oct. 13, 2026. (nypost.com)
Sources
- [1] nypost.com — originally reported as “US women erase two-goal deficit to tie World Cup champion Spain”
