Jenna Nighswonger proves she belongs with the USWNT in the Gold Cup quarterfinals

On Sunday night, the USWNT played in the CONCACAF W Gold Cup quarterfinals against Colombia. Two NJ/NY Gotham FC players started the match, with Jenna Nighswonger and Tierna Davidson getting the nod. The ladies earned a 3-0 win, seeing them move on in the tournament.

Jenna Nighswonger was fantastic in her USWNT start

Nighswonger had a brilliant game for the US. The 2023 NWSL Rookie of the Year put on a show in the left-back position. She did well to match up with the Colombia attackers on her side when defending. She drew fouls and had successful interceptions. Most of her passes were crisp and clean.

Like she does with Gotham, Nighswonger easily worked her way into the attack. She often went forward, providing balls into the box and to attacking players. In addition, she scored an incredible goal in the first half.

In the 22nd minute, Naomi Girma had a free kick near the midfield line. With ease and power, she sent the ball toward the box and Alex Morgan. The veteran striker might have headed the ball at the same time as Colombia's Jorelyn Carabalí, but needless to say, the ball ended up at Nighswonger's feet. The defender took her shot and slid the ball into the bottom right corner of the goal. Her goal put the USWNT up 2-0 at the time.

Meanwhile, Davidson did well, as did everyone, in the back line to limit Colombia's chances. She has to be happy with her start.

Midge Purce, Rose Lavelle, and Emily Sonnett came on during the second half, with Purce coming in after halftime. The winger immediately got to work, acting as a provider on the wings, while Lavelle was an offensive threat. Sonnett was subbed on in the 84th minute.

As a bonus, Kelley O'Hara was in the studio for Paramount+. The USWNT player was not called up for the Gold Cup but has been with Gotham FC for the preseason. The club likely gave her some time off so she could give her takes on the USWNT and voice support for the Bats.

The USWNT will take on Canada in the Gold Cup semifinals on Wednesday. Hopefully, after this match, Nighswonger will get another start under her name after she proved her worth to the squad.