USA vs. France Women's Soccer: Score and Twitter Reaction from 2015 Algarve Cup

The United States won the 2015 Algarve Cup after beating France 2-0. The game was even more comfortable than the score suggests.

Chicago Red Stars duo Julie Johnston and Christen Press staked the U.S. women's national team to a 2-0 first-half lead over France. Johnston's powerful header early on was added to by Press' superb solo effort.

The United States had changed things up front with FC Kansas City forward Amy Rodriguez replacing veteran Abby Wambach. The latter usually offers plenty of threat in the air, but Rodriguez added some much-needed pace in attack.

In truth, the French defence would've struggled no matter who the United States unleashed on them. Freelance journalist Liviu Bird felt the absence of key figures created chaos at the back:

"

Brilliant effort from Press, but France seriously missing Georges (157 caps) and captain Renard in central defense. | France 0-2 U.S. | 44'

— Liviu Bird (@liviubird) March 11, 2015"

Those problems were obvious inside the first 10 minutes. Johnston was practically unopposed as she ran free to meet an expertly whipped in free kick with emphatic force.

The USWNT official Twitter account carried highlights of the early goal:

Sports Illustrated writer Grant Wahl wasn't surprised the United States were causing problems in the air from set pieces:

Plenty of tidy and steady possession followed from Rodriguez, Johnston and Co. Fox Sports writer Laura Vecsey noted how U.S. dominance of the midfield helped set the pattern for the game:

Serene control was maintained as the French posed little threat. Then a moment of true individual brilliance virtually sealed the game.

Press took the ball roughly inside the French half and embarked on a fleet-footed, weaving run capped by a cool finish.

Words don't really do the goal full credit, so check out this highlight courtesy of the U.S. Soccer official YouTube channel:

Despite the overall dominance, the United States still needed goalkeeper Hope Solo. She produced a fine stop from the penalty spot to extinguish any hope of a late France rally.

After the match, Equalizer Soccer writer Dan Lauletta chided the poor start made by the French:

But despite an opponent not living up to their talent, there were plenty of performances on the winning side that merited credit. Lauletta noted how Johnston's was among the best:

His view was shared by Wahl, who also endorsed Johnston for World Cup duty. 

Ultimately, that's the real bonus that will come from winning this Algarve Cup. It should provide a tremendous confidence boost ahead of the premier tournament.