Roord on target as the Netherlands and United States share World Cup spoils | OneFootball

New Manchester City signing Jill Roord was on target as the Netherlands and reigning champions the United States fought out an absorbing 1-1 draw at the 2023 Women’s World Cup.

Roord struck first to open the scoring in Wellington, New Zealand with a 17th minute effort only for Lindsey Horan to level affairs with a second half header as honours ended even.

The Group E clash brought together two of the women’s game’s real heavyweight contenders in what was a repeat of the 2019 World Cup final

The Americans had come into the contest tipped by many observers to go on and secure a fifth world crown.

However, Andries Jonker's impressive Dutch side produced a fine display brimming with vim and vigour.

And Roord, whose move to City from Wolfsburg was confirmed earlier this month, demonstrated her clinical quality by striking in superb fashion to put the Dutch ahead on 17 minutes.

Roord showed a superb left-footed touch to set up a sweeping right-footed strike from just inside the box.

The Stars and Stripes have proved a real superpower on the world stage, winning their previous 13 matches spanning three tournaments, but it was the Netherlands who nearly doubled their lead on the half hour.

Dominique Janssen powered in a fine effort from outside the box which skirted above the crossbar and into the netting.

However, the Americans illustrated why many regard them as the team to beat as they fought back after the break to level affairs through a powerful 62nd minute Horan header from a corner.

Roord was brought off in the 94th minute after a fine all-round display while City colleague Kirstin Casparij was brought on as an 87th minute replacement for Victoria Pelova.

The result left the United States and the Netherlands with four points apiece though the States stay top on goal difference.

With pointless Portugal and Vietnam not playing until 08.30am UK time today, qualification for either to the knockout stages is still not mathematically secure.

The USA face Portugal next at Eden Park, Auckland, on Tuesday (08:00 BST) while the Netherlands play Vietnam in Dunedin at the same time.